Woodford Reserve + Black History Month

Rob Owens is the Founder and President of Harlem Derby.  A native Kentuckian and former athlete who grew up surrounded by the formality and ceremony of the Kentucky Derby, it was only natural that he created Harlem Derby as a natural extension of his southern roots after relocating to New York City and settling in Harlem.

Rob is dedicated to sharing the legacy of the Black Jockeys. He created Harlem Derby in 2013 to spotlight their accomplishments and give back to inner-city youth who might benefit from their amazing successes. The Harlem Derby Style Hat collection names all of the Black Jockeys and allows fashion enthusiasts to celebrate these iconic figures in style. In addition to his work as a designer, Rob produces all Harlem Derby events. He is also a stylist and model.

What do you think about when you hear “Black History Month?”

I think of the shoulders we stand upon. The most innovative, imitated, rich culture that still gets the short end of the stick.

Do you think the restaurant industry has made significant strides to equally incorporate the ideas and development of People of Color, both conceptually and institutionally? What could be done better?

From being stuck in the back of house to front of house, in the spotlight, great strides have been made. A better coming to together could, and should, be adopted with all people as whole.

What does being a black bartender or mixologist mean to you?

Being a black bartender means the world to me. I am grateful to make my mark in history one cocktail at a time.

How does that representation of African American bartenders and mixologists now compare to when you started in the profession?

Never looked that deep into this in my early days but, I am elated to see people, who look like me, on showcase more often these days.

What advice would you give to aspiring mixologists today?

Taste everything, sip and savor, study often, stay open, have fun, keep it sexy

How long have you been in the industry?  6 years

What do you think about when you hear “Black History Month?”

When I hear Black History Month, I think about the many contributions that black people have made not only here in America but all all around the world. I think of a time celebrate our rich culture and reflect on how far we have come as people despite the many obstacles presented to us. I think about the prosperity, health and wealth of our future to come.

Do you think the restaurant industry has made significant strides to equally incorporate the ideas and development of People of Color, both conceptually and institutionally? What could be done better?

I do think the restaurant industry has made significant strides with the inclusion of ideas and develop of people of color. I see this through the different programs that I have been a part in which I have been able to implement my ideas. Also I have seen numerous cocktail menus that include ingredients from various cultural backgrounds.

What does being a black bartender or mixologist mean to you?

I absolutely love being a black bartender it means a lot of to me. It allows me to display my talents and show my creativity off while representing my culture.

How does that representation of African American bartenders and mixologists now compare to when you started in the profession?

The representation of African American in mixology in comparison to when I first began has changed significantly, I find this though my travels both international and domestic.I see more of a presence.

What advice would you give to aspiring mixologists today?

I would like to tell aspiring mixologist to be creative, and be open to learning new techniques, flavor pairings, and trends. Additionally, have fun! It is an amazing and rewarding career, that can lead to many places.

Strength & Resilience! I’m so proud to be Black! I was raised to be proud and to embrace my rich culture. Our contributions to history have been ginormous despite the adversity. The thought of it just makes my heart full.

The opportunities are endless… work smarter not harder.

Like in most industries, BIPOC individuals are the ones that stand out the most but seem to go overlooked when it comes to advancement & promotion. We’re creatives, dreamers, & doers too. In my opinion, maintaining diversity is essential in hospitality…

I see more emerging professionals honing the craft and making huge strides in this industry from owning bars & restaurants, owning spirit/ wine brands, and heading executive-level roles for legacy brands, etc. There’s room for everyone at the table these days. It’s beyond race… it’s all about work ethic in this industry.

What do you think about when you hear “Black History Month?”

I think about pride and strength. Pride because I’m proud to be black everyday, just not one month. Strength because it’s a major part of being black especially in America.

Do you think the restaurant industry has made significant strides to equally incorporate the ideas and development of People of Color, both conceptually and institutionally? What could be done better?

I think real efforts were made by many however some did the bare minimum in order to look good on paper. Giving a POC the opportunity or a seat at the table does nothing if you don’t listen to and/or act on what they bring.

What does being a black bartender or mixologist mean to you?

Being a black bartender, especially a black woman, means that I too can inspire and give opportunities to minorities just like me, that they otherwise might be intimidated or scared to take on because there’s so few of us in this industry.

How does that representation of African American bartenders and mixologists now compare to when you started in the profession?

I’ve definitely been able to meet more African American bartenders by travel and exposure to other markets via opportunities and events provided by certain brands. I think in the past years, we as a community have grown and been able to discover each other creating a network for us.

What advice would you give to aspiring mixologists today?

Education never ends. You’re never going to know everything and don’t make anyone make you feel like they do. Everyone can teach something to somebody no matter the years of experience they have, how many too bars they’ve worked at, etc. Always be willing and open to learning new things and don’t forget to show gratitude for that.