Black History Lewisham 365: October 2022 profiles – Tyron Salih

We spoke with chef Tyron Salih – the founder of twerk’N’jerk.

Tell us a bit about your business

I started twerk’N’jerk in June 2020, during the first lockdown, having previously worked as a psychiatric nurse. It was a big change and the timing was a challenge but cooking has always been my passion so I had to follow my heart.

I was taught to cook by my grandmother. I have such great memories of visiting her in Jamaica as a teenager – of eating this incredible, authentic food with dancehall music wafting in from the street. I’ve used these influences, as well as my own tastes, to devise my menu. I'm excited to have created something unique. There’s nothing else like what I offer out there.

Why do you think it’s important to celebrate Black history?

Black history is world history. It’s not separate. Ancient African civilisations were the blueprint for everything that followed. Black people have been major contributors to every aspect of modern life. I was born and raised in Catford, which is incredibly diverse, but I never learnt any of that at school.

Understanding Black history is empowering for us all but especially to young Black people. It’s important that they’re able to feel that sense of pride in themselves.

What’s it like to be a Black business owner in Lewisham?

There’s a consciousness about supporting Black businesses here in Lewisham, which is great. The Council also recognises there are certain barriers for us when compared to white business owners and I’ve been able to access some of the support they’ve offered, including joining the Federation of Small Businesses. It’s a shame these initiatives are only local though. I’d love to see nationwide Government-led drives.

This year’s theme for Black History Month is Time For Change: Action Not Words – what does that mean to you?

I’m all about action. I’m proud to have partnered with the NHS to launch an initiative to offer work placements to mental health patients – to provide an opportunity to build the skills they need to find a job and live an independent life.

As a gay man, it’s also important to me to do what I can to support the LGBTQ+ community. Earlier this year, I sponsored the first Catford Pride – which was great. I’m of mixed heritage – my parents originate from Cyprus and Jamaica. In my experience neither of those cultures are very accepting of LGBTQ+ people so, longer term, I’d like to create safe spaces for LGTBQ+ communities in both countries.

What’s the most important piece of advice you’ve been given?

It sounds like a cliché but “if at first you don’t succeed, try and try again”. It’s so important to listen to your heart and follow your dreams. It’s really easy to sabotage yourself. I certainly had personal barriers to overcome. But I stayed true to myself and kept plugging away. I started my business in back garden two years ago. Look at how far I've come!

Who is your biggest hero?

Tyler Perry – the actor and filmmaker – is amazing. He’s been through so much to get to where he is now and his ethos of self-reliance blows me away. He founded an all-Black film studios, serviced by an all-Black production crew, meaning he’s able to offer the sorts of opportunities to the next generation of Black film and TV talent that he never had himself.

On a personal level, I’d have to say my husband. He’s been my biggest champion and kept me focussed and motivated on the toughest of days. I wouldn’t be where I am now, without him!

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We spoke to Tyron Salih in October 2022. Visit the twerk'N'jerk website