1. Long-tailed representation
2. Power of presence.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
A Passion for Baking
Kareem Queeman’s journey in the culinary world began at a young age, under the guidance of his grandmother. Encouraged by her, he developed a love for baking. As he honed his skills, Queeman went on to establish his own bakery, which gained recognition through various network television competitions. He not only participated as a contestant but also served as a judge. Additionally, Queeman showcased his culinary talents on several daytime shows.
In 2013, Queeman took a significant step and founded Mr. Bake Sweets, a bakery specializing in designer custom cakes and dessert spreads. Starting as an online venture, the bakery eventually expanded to a brick-and-mortar store located in a food hall in Maryland.
A Reset Year
This year marks a reset for the 37-year-old baking prodigy. In the previous year, Queeman’s exceptional skills earned him recognition as a James Beard semifinalist in the Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker Category. This achievement positioned him to potentially become the first Black and gay man to receive such an honor.
In an exclusive interview with Voices in Food, Queeman discusses his perspective on this year as a reset. He has made the decision to close Mr. Bake Sweets, although he will still undertake specialty orders such as wedding cakes and corporate events. Queeman’s focus now lies beyond baking, as he aims to make an impact in the realms of representation, inspiration, and education. He contemplates the legacy he wishes to leave behind.
A Safe Space through Baking
For Queeman, baking served as an escape during his upbringing in public housing in Harlem. It provided him with a sanctuary where he could tune out the rest of the world. His grandmother offered him a safe space to explore and be his authentic self.
However, Queeman’s mother didn’t fully understand his passion for baking. Being a single Black woman raising two Black sons, she sought to prepare them for a world that often proved unkind to people who looked like them. Additionally, she faced her own battles with illness and addiction.
“I couldn’t find a job — sometimes I think it was my name that kept me from getting a callback.”
– Kareem Queeman
During his middle school years, Queeman took a home economics course. His passion for baking continued to grow throughout high school. Determined to fully represent himself as a Black man who identified as gay, Queeman embarked on a journey of self-discovery. Despite societal limitations, he transformed “I can’t and I shouldn’t” to “I can and I should.”
Upon graduating from The Culinary Institute of New York at Monroe College, Queeman aspired to specialize in baking elaborate wedding cakes. However, job opportunities seemed elusive. Queeman suspects that his name might have played a role in hindering his prospects. He eventually relocated to Virginia, where he assisted in the opening of a bakery and later secured a position at Crumbs Bake Shop. Unsatisfied with the corporate environment, Queeman decided to establish his own bakery, Mr. Bake Sweets, in 2013. The bakery proudly offered nostalgic classic American desserts, such as banana pudding and red velvet cake, crafted with love and aimed at making people feel good. Queeman paid homage to his heritage by transforming a sweet potato pie recipe, inherited from his aunt, into a delectable sweet potato cake.
“There was no representation in food media doing what I do who looked like me — no Black men, no men of color, and no openly queer men.”
– Kareem Queeman
As Queeman’s culinary skills grew, he aspired to appear on television. In 2016, he began participating in various competitions, gaining exposure along the way. Initially, his mother was not supportive of his chosen path; however, she eventually became his biggest cheerleader. Sadly, she passed away in 2017, never witnessing Queeman’s television appearances. Nevertheless, her spirit continues to inspire him.
Queeman recognized the lack of representation in food media for individuals like himself — Black men, men of color, and openly queer men. While notable figures like Marcus Samuelson and Carla Hall have made their mark in the culinary industry, there remained a void for young boys to identify with. Representation plays a vital role in fostering inclusivity and inspiring individuals to pursue their passions. By providing representation, Queeman aims to convey that there is space for everyone, even in traditionally underrepresented areas.
Embracing Social Media and Empowerment
With the rise of social media, Queeman observes an increasing number of young adults embracing their true selves, expressing their gender fluidity, and seeking empowerment. Queeman’s message to them is that presence holds the power, surpassing the importance of the food itself. He is currently in preliminary discussions with his alma mater, Monroe College, to establish a space that aims to revolutionize the culinary industry. Queeman aspires to be a trailblazer for Black, brown, and gay populations. During interactions with students, he has witnessed firsthand the impact of his presence, with many Black men expressing gratitude for providing them a safe space. Queeman aims to weave themes of empowerment and resilience into his work, acknowledging that fear and self-confidence can coexist on the path to success.
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1) “Long-tailed keyword representation”
2) “Powerful presence in representation”.
