photo by steed media service

Father's Day is an American tradition, but oftentimes, it seems to get lost or disregarded altogether. But Yvette Moyo saw an opportunity to take the holiday in a new direction, and shine a light on some men that desperately deserved it. She founded Real Men Cook as a way to show love to the hardworking men in the community. "We had hoped to change the way Father's Day was celebrated in this country," she explains. "We were out to dispel the myth by owning the media on Father's Day with the [image] of black men doing something positive - as they do every day."

"Eighteen years ago when Real Men Cook was but a dream, we started out here in Chicago creating something that would last through generations," continues Moyo. It's safe to say she succeeded, as Real Men Cook is now the largest urban family celebration in the country. Not only does it celebrate real men who care for the family and community, it is a family food-tasting celebration beyond compare. It has now spread farther than Chicago's city limits - the event is now produced annually in 10 different cities.

Moyo can take pride, not only in the event's national growth, but in how her own family has become an integral part of the organization. "I started this with my ex-husband, and [now] my son is our brand strategist. He works hard, he's loyal and he's really taking it to the next level." And Moyo is still grateful for those lives Real Men Cook has touched. "Every time I [walk] out the door, there's somebody who tells me a story about Father's Day and how they spent Father's Day with their family!" she says, smiling. - todd williams

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