With 18 years of experience in accounting and a deep passion for culinary arts, Pooja seamlessly blends financial expertise with the creativity of hospitality. As the founder of Saffron and Spice, an Indian pop-up eatery that also offers catering, cooking classes, and curated dining experiences, Pooja has built a brand that celebrates bold flavors and immersive food experiences.

Beyond the kitchen, Pooja is an active mentor in the culinary space and serves on the board of Rainbow Room Community Partners of Lubbock, demonstrating a commitment to both industry growth and community impact. At the symposium, Pooja brings valuable insights into balancing business acumen with hospitality innovation, sharing experiences from both the corporate and culinary worlds.