The Story of Salena’s, Nox & RYCE with Kelly Metras

Ep. 14 Kelly Metras, co-owner of Salena’s Mexican Restaurant, Salena’s Taqueria, Nox, and co-founder of BOSSY, is someone that is pessimistically optimistic, believing that it is our job as local business owners to make our communities better. She believes that community engagement should be the primary focus of businesses, as we are only as strong as the community that we do business in; if our communities are failing to thrive, it is a direct reflection of the businesses surrounding them. In 2014, Kelly created BOSSY with fellow entrepreneur Kelly Bush, in response to dealing with the complexities of working in a male dominated industry. The goal of BOSSY is to support and lift women business owners in their community, helping to make sure all voices are at the table. In 2015, Kelly founded RYCE (Rochester Youth Culinary Experience) which developed and opened a full-service restaurant with a group of 12 high school students from a culinary program in the City of Rochester. The program was discontinued for many reasons, which she will gladly talk about if you ask, but the lessons learned, and the insight gained, remain a huge part of the growth plan for her current businesses. Kelly’s belief in a community centered approach is reflected in all of her life choices. She is cautious and aware of how her money is recycled back into the local economy, and supports grassroots organizations in any way that she can, often through advertising dollars and partnerships. The focus of many of these partnerships is to assist those on the front lines lifting community members that are disproportionately affected by deep-seeded racist policies and practices. Kelly's passion is to continue to meet new people doing amazing things, and to connect us all so that we can all thrive. Connect with Bossy: Instagram: @BossyRoc Website: www.bossyroc.comThank you to our Sponsors: Salena's Mexican Restaurant at Village Gate 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607  Union Tavern 4565 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14622 Marshall Street Bar 81 Marshall St, Rochester, NY 14607   This episode is supported by Riverside.fm, the leading platform to record studio quality audio or video podcasts. Visit Riverside.FM and use promo code JAZZYCAST to get 2 HOURS of FREE Remote recording and 15% off a membership plan.   Other episodes you'll enjoy: Kelly Bush: Working through Trauma | Getting Real with Bossy Heart of the Hustle | a new podcast by JazzCast Pros Which Industries Thrive During a Recession? | Beauty Boss Millionaire   Music: Do it by Infraction, Mellow Bop by Prigida & You are the best by Cutesy Chamber Ensemble  Produced by JazzCast Pros   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices