About Juszina Maria
Juszina Maria was born and raised in Gary, Indiana and is the third oldest of six children. She currently resides in Indianapolis, Indiana and has two wonderful sons, Roosevelt and Ryan. Her granddaughter, Neasia, means the world to her.
Juszina’s mother instilled the value of hard work and how it was so important to attend school and learn a trade. Her grandmother would always say, “Do something you love doing and you will never work a day in your life”. This was definitely a true statement and as a result of that guidance, Juszina graduated from Gary Lew Wallace High School and then the Indianapolis Chef Academy, with Honors. She then became the owner of Classy Diva Caterers and is the Agency Owner of her own Insurance Company.
Juszina always wanted to figure out different ways to give-back, help and be a blessing to others. She uses her passion for cooking, which is a gift from God, to provide amazing meals, but also shares her cooking skills with others through classes and demonstrations. She plans to share this gift with the world through a series of cookbooks and eventually her own cooking show.
Hello & Welcome!
I am Chef Juszina, a professional Chef who has a passion for preparing and serving “comfort food”. I also enjoy teaching young dreamers the skills and techniques of cooking and following their dreams.
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I have been cooking since the age of seven, learning from my Mother in her kitchen. I can remember assisting my Mother with cooking for our family of ten while growing up. I had an eagerness to learn and I graduated from the Indianapolis Chef Academy and from there, Classy Diva Caterers & Gourmet Meal Prep, was birthed. Being the owner of my own Insurance company, I have developed impeccable customer service skills which have transitioned into my catering business as well. It took a lot of long hours and sleepless nights, getting my businesses started but I wouldn’t change a thing!
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When people taste my food it brings joy to them. From the smiles I receive, to the shaking of their head and tapping of their feet in complete satisfaction, warms my soul. That is truly an indication of a job well done! I wouldn’t have it any other way. What I want people to know about me is my kitchen is my happy place. It takes me away to a whole different world. Knowing that I can please a palate and fill a belly, is dear to my heart. I want to change the way people look at food. Food doesn’t have to be boring, it can be exciting and very sexy. It is like going on a first date, your first impression can be a lasting impression, so you want to get the flavors and the plating right your first try. As a chef, I want to ensure that everything is pleasing visually because people taste with their eyes before their mouth. I love colors that pop and love to infuse different color fruits and veggies in my meals. You can’t go wrong with these. I am obsessed with a scrumptious looking plate and with flavors that wake up the palate. Allow me to bring you into my magical world of food with a sprinkle of “FAVA FLAVORS”, and all this goodness wrapped into one plate! Your tastebuds will definitely thank me later!!
Chef Juszina Maria
ACCOLADES
Chef Juszina Maria's accolades stand as a testament to her outstanding contributions and active involvement within the Indianapolis community. As a member of Indy Kitchen, she has showcased her culinary prowess and unwavering dedication to the local food scene. Her commitment to social and economic empowerment is clearly evident through her collaboration with The Urban League.
Moreover, Chef Juszina Maria's support extends to the sports community, where she collaborates with the Pacers and the Indiana Fever. Her presence on Wish TV and WTHR 13 News allows her to reach a broader audience, sharing her culinary expertise with the community and beyond.
Beyond her culinary endeavors, Chef Juszina Maria plays a vital role in education, having been collaborated with the Indianapolis School Board. Her unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and being a women-owned business is underscored by her certification with the Indianapolis Minority & Women-Owned Business Development program.
Finally, her involvement with The National Coalition of 100 Black Women Indianapolis exemplifies her dedication to advancing the rights and opportunities of women of color in the city. Chef Juszina Maria's impressive list of accolades paints a portrait of a remarkable individual who is deeply committed to community engagement and empowerment.
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Indy Kitchen Member
Black Chamber Indy Board Member
Urban League Collaboration
Nexus Indiana Collaboration
Indiana Pacers Collaboration
Indiana Fever Collaboration
Wish TV Collaboration
WTHR 13 News Collaboration
Indianapolis School Board Collaboration
Indianapolis Minority & Women-Owned Business Development Certified
The National Coalition of 100 Black Women Indianapolis Member