VERONICA REYNAGA
Sofia Quintero Art and Culture Center
Veronica Reynaga is a culinary educator, community leader, and advocate whose work uses food as a tool for workforce development, cultural preservation, and community connection. As Culinary Artist and Kitchen Manager at the Sofia Quintero Art and Culture Center, she oversees a shared commercial kitchen while leading programs that promote job skills, healthy living, and access to nutritious food.
Reynaga has developed innovative initiatives that create opportunities for young people and underserved populations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped provide more than 3,000 meals, fresh produce, and food kits to community members in need. She also created Empowered Chef, a workforce development program that equips youth with hands-on culinary training, industry-recognized certifications, and the confidence needed to pursue future career opportunities. Her work has expanded through partnerships with organizations including the Lucas County Juvenile Detention Center, Art Tatum Zone, and FLOC Homies.
Her commitment to community wellness extends through nutrition education and culturally relevant programming. As the founding Executive Chef for SAME Café Toledo and leader of the CENARE initiative, Reynaga has helped individuals and families build healthier lifestyles while celebrating cultural traditions through food. She also continues to grow her impact through leadership development programs focused on advancing Latino leadership and community engagement. Her selection as a 20 Under 40 honoree reflects her dedication to empowering others, preserving culture, and bringing people together through education, service, and shared experiences.

