The African Pastry Queen
“I Am African & I Can” is a women’s empowerment blog highlighting stories of black women’s struggles and successes.
By Hadiatou Wann | 07/19/19
Born and raised in Brooklyn and of Guinean and Sierra Leonean descent, Isata Koroma grew up in a household where she was encouraged to be herself. Nothing negative was forced down on her. This freedom she had early on gave her room for creativity and the confidence to hatch into a field many don't consider.
Isata learned to adapt to a new environment from a young age because she traveled a lot. Once she figured out that she was crafty with her hands, she knew that she had to put her skills and Imagination to use.
She went on to complete a 2-year culinary program in 18 months at the Art Institute of Philadelphia. Then, she moved to Melbourne, Australia when an opportunity to make money was presented. From 2015-2016, she was the only pastry chef on the Island—where she worked a 16 hour-shift for 6 days.
Moving to a place unbeknownst to her at just 21 years of age helped her become more independent and gave her the space to learn about her strengths and weaknesses.
The experience of independently working long hours on a resort gave her the drive she needed to kick start her own catering services called “The Icings on Top.”
People usually go through a stressful time organizing an event. Isata wants to be the one to facilitate that process for anyone looking to have a birthday party, wedding, baby shower, graduation ceremony, and more.
Her services offer a one-stop shop experience. Instead of booking separately a host, baker, or a company that handles space decor, Isata does it all for you. Her one-stop shop catering services helps her clients not only save time, but also create beautiful, lasting memories without breaking the bank.
Isata admits that it's not a normality to go for artistry in the African community. “You can make a paycheck and do what you love,” the baker said.
It takes her anywhere from 5 to 12 hours to make cake, a process which entails: to bake, cool, level, and decorate. In the past, she made a cake for Nigerian musician Davido, and Cynthia Bailey from Real Housewives of Atlanta.
“Isata is the true embodiment of ‘there is no limit.’ She not only dares to dream big, but turns them into reality. Expressing her creativity is her happy place and for that to also bring joy to others is truly inspiring,” says Isata's cousin, Aisha Koroma.
This year, during Ramadan, the pastry queen donated hundreds of dollars and cupcakes to organizations like “Black DMV Iftar” and “The Art of Ramadan.”
Her outgoing personality makes it easy for her to connect with people. In 2016, she was crowned Miss Guinee North America. Competing in the pageant made her step out of her comfort zone.
“I learned that sometimes all you need is one person to believe in you, for you to reach your fullest potential. By encouraging kids to follow their dreams, even though it may be unconventional, they are more likely to stay out of trouble and be more productive. And that supporting each other in our community, will get all of us further,”she said about her experience as Miss Guinee North America.
Being a lawyer, doctor, or an engineer is great. But there are other professions. Isata shows us that we shouldn’t limit ourselves. Choosing a career based on popularity does not equate complete satisfaction. She understood that the beauty of reaching success lies in figuring out what you love and making an income from It. She chose a lane that is true to who she is and is using her charisma and creativity to deliver professional results for her clients.
Welcome to Isata Koroma’s World
“You can call me Icey or when you want sweets. Your favorite African Pastry Queen. I bake Cupcakes and other goodies.”
Made by Isata
Made by Isata
Made by Isata
“A strong woman is anyone who goes after what they want.I believe in having a plan and executing it.”
Made by Isata
Made by Isata
“My platform was on promoting and encouraging self expression via arts. I hosted multiple talent shows, and threw a open mic night to show case African artist in the DMV area. During my reign, I traveled back to Guinea and joined forces with an acrobatic school called TinaFan. I have been raising funds to help them get new equipment for their facility. ”
Made by Isata
Catering services by Isata
Made by Isata
“Success is whatever makes me happy and makes me money.”
In 2018, Isata hosted the Africa Gives Back Gala, an African Indie Film Premiere titled “The Wrong One." Also GAED & Hope of Guinea and multiple other fundraisers for the Guinean community.
Isata was a lead character on a YouTube web series called The Bid from 2012 to 2013. She helped bring the vision to life. She came up with some of the story line with the director and played one of the main characters, Fatimah.
“No one can do what you do the way you do it.”
Connect with Isata:
Facebook: Isata Koroma
Instagram: @theicingsontop
Email: theicingsontop@gmail.com
Read other success stories here: www.iamafricanandican.info/blog
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