Check Out Adelston Canady’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Adelston Canady.

Hi Adelston, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My story begins in unfavorable circumstances—you really had to get it out the mud. I grew up surrounded by drugs, addiction, alcohol, and constant chaos, along with a lot of unhealthy influences. I became a teen parent at 15, and that moment changed everything. I was determined to break the cycle of not having a father in my life and to show my children something different.

That’s when I realized cooking was a God-given gift. Food became my way of expressing love, creating nostalgia, and providing stability for my family. What started as survival slowly became purpose.

In 2014, I decided to seriously pursue a career as a personal/private chef. While working at Whole Foods in Highland Park, I found the perfect environment to sharpen my skills and build clientele. I also trained briefly at Nonna, an Italian restaurant, where I hosted my first pop-up—an experience that helped validate my vision.

On February 16, 2020, I took a leap of faith and became a full-time entrepreneur. I truly felt God pulling on my heart to make the jump, and when I was obedient, He blessed me beyond what I imagined. Almost immediately, I was earning three times what I made before leaving Whole Foods.

Since then, my journey has taken me many places. I’ve traveled, worked with diverse clients, executed corporate catering, and now have the privilege of serving as a private chef for NBA players in Philadelphia. Through obedience, hard work, and faith, God has carried me to where I am today—to God be the glory.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road at all—it’s been a roller coaster with plenty of ups and downs, but it’s been worth it. The journey required a lot of sacrifice. Time away from family, not always knowing when the next consistent gig would come, losing sleep, and constantly learning how to steward time and money wisely.

At the same time, I was trying to be everything at once—a present father, a supportive husband, a good friend, and a focused businessman. Balancing all of that can be extremely stressful. But those challenges shaped me, strengthened my discipline, and deepened my faith. The struggle wasn’t wasted—it prepared me for the level of responsibility and opportunity I carry today.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a private and personal chef who specializes in creating elevated, nostalgic comfort food with a gourmet approach. My work blends technique with heart—I take familiar flavors and reimagine them in a way that feels intentional, thoughtful, and personal. Whether I’m cooking for families, corporate clients, pop-ups, or professional athletes, my goal is always to create an experience, not just a meal.

I’m known for my versatility and my ability to adapt to my clients’ lifestyles and needs—from clean, performance-focused meals to indulgent, soul-driven dishes. I take pride in being able to walk into any kitchen, assess what’s available, and turn it into something refined and memorable. That skill comes from years of practice, discipline, and respect for the craft.

What I’m most proud of is the life I’ve built through food—being able to provide for my family, travel, serve at a high level, and still stay rooted in faith and community. I’m also proud of breaking generational cycles and showing my children that purpose, obedience, and hard work can create real opportunities.

What sets me apart is that I don’t just cook—I serve. I lead with intention, humility, and excellence. My food tells a story, creates connection, and leaves people feeling seen, cared for, and inspired. That combination of skill, heart, and purpose is what makes my work different.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My biggest advice is to lead with humility and service. A mentor doesn’t usually come from asking someone to “be your mentor”—it comes from showing up consistently, being useful, and proving you’re serious about the craft. I’ve found that relationships grow naturally when people see your work ethic, character, and willingness to learn.

Networking, for me, has always been about environments. I put myself in spaces where excellence already existed—places like Whole Foods, professional kitchens, pop-ups, and creative communities. I focused on doing my job at a high level and letting my work speak before I spoke. That opened doors to conversations, trust, and eventually opportunities.

What’s worked best is building genuine relationships instead of chasing access. I ask questions, I listen more than I talk, and I follow through on what I say I’m going to do. I also believe in giving value first—whether that’s helping on an event, sharing knowledge, or supporting someone else’s vision.

Lastly, I stay prayerful and patient. Every connection isn’t meant to be permanent, and every mentor isn’t meant to stay forever. Some people are assigned to teach you a season, and your responsibility is to be ready, respectful, and obedient when those moments come.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nuflavorcreations.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamtheflavorartist
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EjddhHqNQ/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@nuflavorcreations

Image Credits
The real food tour
Justin Kaplan
Myself