May Alumni Accolades
Alumni Jessica House: Turning Faith, Flavor, and Family into a Food Movement
From the bustling Westside of Chicago to the heart of the local food scene, Jessica House is transforming how her community connects through food. As the proud owner of Just Dip It Tacos, Jessica is serving more than just quesabirria - she’s serving heritage, heart, and hope.
Jessica’s culinary roots run deep, inspired by the matriarch of her family: her grandmother. A woman of strength and discipline, she ran a multigenerational household with grace and purpose - rising at 4 a.m. to prepare three home-cooked meals a day. But more than the meals, it was the sense of unity they brought that left an indelible mark on Jessica.
“Food has the power to educate, unite, and impact our lives,” Jessica shared during her graduation speech with Sunshine Enterprises. “In our Black and Brown communities, food is a pillar - essential during times of joy and grief alike.”
For years, Jessica balanced her passion for food as a hobby while working a corporate job. But in May 2023, after being laid off, she chose to walk in faith, not fear. That pivotal moment led her to launch Just Dip It Tacos, blending family inspiration with entrepreneurial ambition.
With no formal culinary or business training, Jessica knew she needed support to grow her dream. That’s when she found Sunshine Enterprises through networking and word of mouth. Enrolling in our Community Business Academy (CBA) in 2024, she immediately connected with the curriculum and the community. “The real-life exercises and relationship building I found with the CBA were priceless,” Jessica says.
She didn’t stop there. Jessica continued her journey with our Business Acceleration Services 90-day business coaching program. “I enrolled into the coaching program immediately following graduation. It has been amazing! It's allowed my coach and I to truly dive deep into my business and build and create strategies towards my goals. As the 90 days come to a close, I know I have a true champion in my corner with my coach next to me. Overall it's taught me to remain agile, open to new experiences and don't stop going, no matter what it looks like.”
Jessica’s Advice to Rising Entrepreneurs:
“Keep going! Know the journey will not be easy, there will be challenges - that’s part of the lessons and breakthroughs. Your gifts are worth sharing with the world! Only YOU can do what YOU do, so DO IT!”