Welcoming the Immigrant through the Kitchen with Kerry Brodie

"Don’t oppress an immigrant. You know what it’s like to be an immigrant, because you were immigrants in the land of Egypt." - Exodus 23:9

Through her international relations work, Kerry Brodie saw firsthand the plight that immigrants face in the U.S. God put a call on her heart to make change and create opportunities for people who come to this country to not only find work, but also find community and support. She founded Emma's Torch, an organization that provides refugees with in-depth culinary training as well as employability, equity, and empowerment training. In our conversation, Kerry shares the impetus for creating the organization, how her Jewish faith drives her, and her vision for what is possible when you listen to the still small voice of God putting a call on your heart.

Learn more about Emma's Torch.

About Kerry 
Kerry Brodie is the founder and Executive Director of Emma’s Torch. Since its launch in 2016, Emma’s Torch has opened multiple locations in New York City and has recently expanded operations to Washington, DC. 

Kerry’s passion for sustainable business models has played an important role in Emma’s Torch’s growth. She believes in being mission-driven and data-informed. Her interest in philanthropic R.O.I. has kept the organization laser-focused on ensuring program graduates get the best possible outcomes: to pursue their own goals and attain financial freedom.

Since founding Emma’s Torch, Kerry has had the opportunity to grow her leadership at the intersection of culinary arts and social advocacy. She is a recipient of a Gaudium Award from the Breukelein Institute and was a 2020 JWI Woman to Watch. She has been featured on CNN Heroes, The Forward 50, City & State’s 40 Under 40, and 36 Under 36–among many others.