Lorinda John. A cultural creative, culinary historian, and chef rooted in storytelling through food. I carry Seneca heritage, and my work is guided by the understanding that food is memory, identity, and connection.
I am from Western New York and currently reside in the region, where I continue to build community through food, education, and creative expression. I come from a lineage of strength and resilience, and I honor my family—those before me and those I am raising—through the work that I do. Education I earned my Culinary Arts degree from Erie Community College and went on to receive my Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Buffalo State University, with a focus in restaurant management. Currently, I am pursuing my Master’s degree in Creative and Change Leadership at Buffalo State, where I continue to deepen my work in creativity, systems thinking, and community-centered leadership. Talent & Journey My work lives at the intersection of food, culture, and storytelling. I often describe it as more than cooking—it is a practice of remembering. I got my start in kitchens, but over time I realized my work was meant to go beyond the plate.
I began creating experiences that reconnect people to Indigenous foodways, seasonal rhythms, and the stories carried within ingredients. What I love most is the ability to create space—whether through a meal, a class, or a shared moment—where people feel something. Where they slow down. Where they remember. Goals & Community Work My goal is to continue building spaces where culture, creativity, and community meet. Through my business, Aurora Treasures, I lead classes, curate food experiences, and create opportunities for others to step into their own creative and entrepreneurial paths.
One example is my Entrepreneurship 101 program, which provides accessible education and culminates in a community-centered market and free meal. This work came to life at the Mother’s Day Market held back on Friday, May 8th at Seneca Fire, where community members gathered, supported local vendors, and shared in a meal together—ensuring that growth and opportunity are shared. I believe deeply in giving back through action, whether that’s feeding community, mentoring emerging creatives, or creating platforms for others to be seen and supported.
To anyone looking to step into this field: trust your voice, move with intention, and remember that your work holds meaning beyond what you can immediately see. Additional My work is rooted in intention. I believe in taking time, honoring process, and allowing things to unfold as they are meant to. Time was taken. Rhythm was allowed.
