(AMI) Association Montessori Internationale-trained culinary innovator Felicity Curin.
Founder Felicity Curin Founder, President & COO
LKA was conceived by combining my two passions for teaching children, and exploratory cooking. In my role, I oversee all operational aspects of the business, including recipe and curriculum development, culture and people, training, support, and is the inspiration that drives the brand.
Independence is the one ingredient that is always in my kitchen.
Our inspired innovator.
For me, food represents much more than mere sustenance; it embodies community, exploration, innovation, love, learning, enjoyment, and ideally, deliciousness.
I began my career in the food industry with Earl’s Restaurants, where I was responsible for launching and managing the first U.S. location. This location quickly became the leading unit in the chain during its inaugural year. Following my success with a second location, I relocated to the Caribbean to oversee operations for Cold Stone Creamery’s first international site, which I developed into the first franchise in the system to achieve $1M in sales. After returning to Vancouver in 2006, inspired by my three young daughters, I shifted my focus towards education, particularly Montessori methods, eventually earning my (AMI) Association Montessori Internationale teaching certification and working as a substitute teacher across the Lower Mainland.
My concept for Little Kitchen Academy emerged from my dual passions for education and food. Since the opening of the inaugural Little Kitchen Academy in Vancouver in June 2019, I have managed all operational elements of the business, which include human resources, training, franchise partner support, and program development, all aimed at ensuring that every student leaves each class filled with pride and joy, aware of their ability to tackle challenging tasks.
I am thankful to have been acknowledged as an Emerging Leader in Franchising by Global Franchise, as well as one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s Top 100 Women of Impact. However, the most significant aspect of my journey with LKA has been witnessing how what was once merely a dream is now changing lives. When I envisioned the impact of Little Kitchen Academy, I anticipated it would positively affect my students, but I never expected the transformative influence it would have on countless others; this includes the partners launching their own locations worldwide, the instructors who experience the magic of LKA with students daily, the team members and investors who have chosen to join this mission, and myself, who, along with the entire LKA Family, is dedicated to making the world a healthier and happier place.
Building your own business brings out all the feelings! I feel passionate, grateful, inspired, challenged, scared and vulnerable. Every day there is new growth and new opportunities. I originally thought that my joy would come from seeing our students grow their skills and confidence with simple tasks such as cracking eggs or grating cheese. What has happened is that I also feel joy watching my family become an essential part in our growth. I see our incredible directors and instructors so happy in their work. And every day I get to work with the best people on Earth.
Felicity Curin, Founder, President, and COO
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