Naimah Rutling Community Kitchen Partner

Chef Naimah “Nai” Rutling, Cathedral Kitchen’s Executive Chef, brings over 30 years of culinary expertise and a profound dedication to transforming lives through food. With a degree in Food Science from The Art Institute of Philadelphia, Chef Nai’s career began at Wolfgang Puck Catering, followed by various esteemed chef and management roles. She eventually launched her own successful catering business. Joining Cathedral Kitchen in 2019 as a part-time Culinary Chef Instructor, Chef Nai’s background and experiences mirror those of many of her students, making her a relatable and inspiring figure. Her passion for teaching and commitment to Cathedral Kitchen’s mission (to help people out of food insecurity and champion their pursuit of stability and prosperity) led to her promotion to Executive Chef in 2023. In this role, she oversees the organization’s Meal Program, which provides hot, scratch-made meals to 350-750 people experiencing food insecurity each day, while continuing to serve as the beloved lead instructor for the Culinary Arts Training program.

Chef Nai’s journey is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of education. Once a high school dropout and single teen mom from North Philadelphia, she overcame significant challenges to achieve her dream of becoming a chef. Her life took a remarkable turn when she earned her high school diploma at 25, pursued higher education, and embarked on a flourishing culinary career. Chef Nai’s story and her dedication to her students embody Cathedral Kitchen’s mission to help people out of food insecurity and champion their pursuit for stability and prosperity. Her impact is evident, with 85% of CK’s Culinary Arts graduates securing employment within three months of completing the program, thanks to her unwavering support and guidance. Chef Nai’s commitment to helping others succeed makes her a true hero to everyone at Cathedral Kitchen.