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Veena Prasad
Social impact change maker
Veena Prasad is a prominent social entrepreneur and the founder of Project Feast, a nonprofit organization based in Seattle, dedicated to empowering immigrant and refugee cooks by providing them with job training and opportunities in the food industry. She established Project Feast in 2013, driven by her passion for food and its ability to foster community connections. The organization has since helped numerous individuals transition into sustainable employment, often leading to successful careers in the culinary field or the establishment of their own businesses.123
Background and Education
Veena Prasad holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University and an MBA from the University of Washington's Foster School of Business. Before her nonprofit work, she worked as an engineer and project manager at Procter & Gamble, where she developed skills that would later inform her entrepreneurial ventures.34
Career Highlights
- Founder of Project Feast: Launched in 2013, the organization focuses on training refugees and immigrants to navigate the culinary job market, emphasizing their cultural backgrounds and culinary skills.12
- Ubuntu Street Cafe: Under her leadership, Project Feast opened Ubuntu Street Cafe, which serves dishes from various cultures represented by its apprentices, thereby promoting intercultural exchange through food.15
- Advocacy for Immigrants: Veena has been vocal about the challenges faced by immigrants and refugees, particularly in light of political climates that can be hostile towards these communities. She has emphasized the importance of maintaining cultural identity through food.15
Personal Life
Originally from India, Veena Prasad has lived in various places including the US Midwest and Germany before settling in Seattle in 2007. She is also a mother to twins and enjoys gardening in her spare time, practicing sustainable living principles.34
Veena's work continues to inspire many within the community as she advocates for social change through equitable practices and community engagement.

