Maya Angelou said it best, “if you’re always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” Christopher Hawkins has never tried to be normal. He has always gone over and above what is being asked or required of him. He is both a pillar in the community and in the workplace, Christopher is the epitome of a true renaissance man.
Thus far, you probably have not met a young man who believes so strongly in family, building and strengthening the community, and inspiring the next generation to be the best they can be. His motto: “We Inspire. Believe. Succeed” (WIBS). WIBS is also the name of his mobile food unit and catering company, but it is more than just an acronym, Christopher wants WIBS to be an inspiration to everyone he meets.
After years of traveling around the state as a Science, Technology, Arts, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEAM) instructor, Christopher has taught hands-on STEAM classes as well as entertained children and adults in several communities including organizations, businesses, and schools nationally. For over three years, Mr. Hawkins and his organization were chosen to entertain over 35,000 children and their parents at the White House Easter Egg Roll in Washington, DC. Christopher Hawkins, aka “Mop Top” the “Hip Hop Scientist” was the only mascot at the Easter Egg Roll that was not a movie or gaming mascot. He showed up and showed out with lots giggles and smiles from both kids and adults. However, his greatest joy and passion is food…cooking and teaching others about food.
In 2000, Christopher started his cooking career at a local sports bar and soon worked his way up the ladder. Through the years, he learned all aspects of the restaurant business, yet he continued to teach and motivate children through STEAM. He never forgot his dream and Christopher continued to gather the necessary tools that he would need to start his vision, WIBS. In February 2016, Christopher was referred a job in Raleigh, NC, for a grill cook. He applied and was hired in March 2016. A few weeks later, management noticed not only his work ethics, but they noticed Christopher’s skills in the kitchen. He was offered a cook’s position and soon after became production manager. Christopher worked hard, learned from his mentors, and a year became the dining manager of the property. In this next position, Christopher was overseeing the operations, managing staff, ordering products and occasionally, would jump back in the kitchen to prepare and cook foods. He did not mind rolling up his sleeve and working to get the job done. Now, you can also find Christopher in Cary, NC, working some nights at Koka Booth Amphitheater, for Classic Sports Catering. His fast paced and strong work ethic and his ability to multitask has taken him to the Honda Classic in 2019, 2020 and most recently, to the SAS Golf Tournament in 2020. Christopher now has taken a role with NC State as General Manager of the second largest dining hall on campus, enhancing his skills even more. Employers will tell you that rarely will you meet a man as humble, caring, and passionate about working hard and inspiring others to be amazing as Christopher Hawkins.
Christopher has worked in the food service industry for over twenty-one years. He loves to combine spices, seasonings, and herbs, to make unique and enjoyable foods. His passion for work and his work ethic is incomparable…like no other. Truly, it sets him apart. He believes in working hard, motivating staff, and doesn’t mind jumping right in and working alongside his employees to fill a positions when help is needed. Christopher’s motto: “Teamwork Makes the Dreamwork”.
His love for family and cooking has spilled over into Christopher’s brand. When Christopher developed the WIB’s menu, he wanted to be different, but most of all, he wanted to cater more to families. For example, his kids’ menu items are named after his nieces, who he loves and adores. “WIBLETS,” are the seven little ones…nieces that continue to hold his heart no matter their ages. Christopher says his success comes from those in his life who pushed him and would not allow him to be normal. Those family members had similar mindsets, passionate about food, getting the job(s) done even if you were/are tired, and helping others. If you try, he’s got your back…as long as you try.
