Persevering at Cheryl’s Global Soul
Cheryl Smith, chef and owner of Cheryl’s Global Soul in Prospect Heights, left, poses with Clarke Greene at the restaurant. Photo by Aisha Greene
“Our mission statement is to be that cozy cafe around the way...it’s where individuals can come in eating alone, and they’re always a conversation away from making new friends.”
By Clarke Greene
In her restaurant’s 20 years in business, Cheryl Smith has experienced every trial within the food industry. Yet from a worldwide pandemic to neighborhood gentrification and so much more, one word defines Cheryl as consistently as her food: perseverance. This story follows Cheryl through her first forays into cooking, her introduction to the food industry, and the eventual opening of her restaurant, Cheryl’s Global Soul. We learn how this beloved space became a fixture of Brooklyn’s Prospect Heights and what it took to get there.
You can help support the restaurant’s longevity by donating here.
Clarke Greene is a senior at Bard High School Early College in Manhattan. She is a member of her school's student union, Black Student Association and step team. She also works as the Smart Scholars intern at Bard Manhattan. When Clarke isn't studying or packing for a conference or event, she loves playing Roblox with her friends and watching Love Island or Big Brother.
The Summer Youth Podcast Academy is The Bell’s immersive beginner podcasting workshop for New York City public school students. This year’s academy was made possible by support from the Spotify Studios Union.
