What is your connection to the neighborhood?

I am the owner of Dylamato's Market and Chair of the Governance Committee for Hazelwood Initiative. I am also on the board of Fishes & Loaves Cooperative Ministries, which helps to provide free food to those in need in the neighborhood through its congregant feeding and Meals on Wheels programs.

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Where are you from and what brought you to Hazelwood? 
I have lived in many places in the US and Africa. I came to Hazelwood because I was studying food, and Hazelwood is classified as a food desert. I wanted to help change that.

 

What are the TOP TWO most important parts of our mission that you are concerned about? 

Affordable homeownership and affordable commercial space

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Why are the above issues important to you? 
I am an entrepreneur. A big part of my success is having an affordable space to rent as a first-time business owner. Because I found an affordable space, I have been able to keep my prices affordable also and grow slowly into a successful grocery business. I want others to have this opportunity too.

 

How does your background provide you with unique skills or insight to help tackle these issues as a board member? 
I have a masters degree in food studies and am a successful entrepreneur in the food business. I have also lived in other countries where there are many, many small businesses owned by entrepreneurs. I started a business in part to find out why there aren't more businesses like mine in Pittsburgh. I want to help change that.

 

What do you love about Hazelwood?

I love that it is diverse. I love working in a community where my employees and customers are a diverse mix of races, ages and socio-economic backgrounds.  I love creating a positive social space where people who are different from each other can interact together around purchasing healthy food.