URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – To celebrate Juneteenth, we invited you to nominate a Black-owned businesses in Champaign-Urbana. In partnership with our sister radio station, The Vibe 97.9 we will recognize five outstanding local businesses and their valuable contributions to our community this week. Today, we shine the spotlight on Mama Duke’s Food Truck.

Meet Ms. Lashonda: The Visionary Behind Mama Duke’s

Ms. Lashonda, the founder and owner of Mama Duke’s, has been delighting the Champaign-Urbana community and surrounding areas with her unique “Buffet on Wheels… Meat fresh off the grill” for two years. Her journey into the culinary world began at Parkland College, where a business plan project for her culinary arts course transformed into a tangible reality.  

Meet Ms. Lashonda, the beautiful soul behind Mama Duke’s Food Truck. | Photo courtesy of Mama Duke’s Food Truck/Facebook
A Dream Realized

Without relying on grants or loans, Ms. Lashonda meticulously saved her money and, while raising four children, purchased a food truck. It took three years of hard work and determination to get the truck fully operational. Today, Mama Duke’s serves delicious BBQ with soul food sides, including her famous rib tips, seasoned to perfection with her special blend. The peach cobbler cupcakes, a signature dessert, are a must-try—make sure to order them first! 

Ms. Lashonda says that Mama Duke’s Peach Cobbler Cupcakes are one of her most popular items. | Photo courtesy of Mama Duke’s Food Truck/Facebook
Community and Family at Heart

Mama Duke’s is a true family-owned business, with Ms. Lashonda’s nine-year-old son already managing his own venture, “Sipping’ with Sarion,” set to debut soon. Ms. Lashonda’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to teaching her children the values of hard work and entrepreneurship are at the core of her business philosophy. 

Ms. Lashonda’s son, Sarion, is already following in Mama Duke’s footsteps. Photo courtesy of Mama Duke’s Food Truck/Facebook
Roots and Recognition

The name “Mama Duke’s” originated from her days as a sports mom, a nickname given by one of her sons’ coaches that has since become synonymous with her brand. You can frequently find her food truck in the lot of the Urbana Walmart lot and follow her updates on Facebook to see where Mama Duke’s will be next. 

Gratitude and Support

Ms. Lashonda extends heartfelt thanks to God, The Housing Authority of Champaign County (HACC), and especially Mr. David Brayfield, for their unwavering support. She credits the HACC’s SHIFT program, directed by Stephanie Burnett, for helping her navigate through permits and empowering her to pursue her education and business goals.  

Mama Duke’s riblets look so good they make you want to lick the screen | Photo courtesy of Mama Duke’s Food Truck/Facebook
Housing Authority of Champaign County’s Impact 

The HACC, under the guidance of Stephanie Burnett, Director of Moving to Work (MTW), aims to help residents achieve self-sufficiency. Through the SHIFT program, residents can attend workshops and apply for grants to further their education or business aspirations. In the past year alone, the HACC has helped five families become homeowners by providing GAP assistance and forgivable downpayment grants of up to $15,000. 

Looking Ahead

Ms. Lashonda’s next goal is to achieve homeownership, a testament to her continuous drive and ambition. The support from HACC has been instrumental in her journey, and she remains a beacon of inspiration for many in the community. 

Follow Mama Duke’s on Facebook to stay updated on her food truck’s locations and indulge in her delectable offerings!