The Future Plate’s Jason Howard: ‘Don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong here’

The Caterer’s This is Hospitality campaign is bringing all the positive aspects of the sector to the fore, from invaluable people skills to the camaraderie of a tight-knit team.

Jason Howard is culinary director of Future Plate, an African and Caribbean cuisine event caterer and Black chef collective with a test kitchen at Somerset House in London. He is also co-owner and head chef of Flava Pepper, an authentic Caribbean restaurant in Brixton Hill, London.

Here, he talks about cheffing as a mode of creative expression and why you should always write things down. 

What’s the best opportunity hospitality has given you?

Hospitality has given me a portal to express my creativity and heritage through creating amazing dishes and sharing them with guest and colleagues alike, and I will forever be thankful for that.

Who has most inspired you in the sector?

I would say my father and Gordon Ramsay.

What’s the best advice you’ve received in your career?

Don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong here, as we all have something offer this industry.

What’s the most enjoyable part of your day-to-day role?

In service when everyone is just communicating and working like a well-oiled machine.

What’s the most memorable thing that’s happened to you in hospitality?

I would have to say reaching the Great British Menu south-east finals on my first try.