Junior Keona Dooley runs J&K Style Grill

An inspiring young leader

Raine Morrison, Staff Writer

From wings to gourmet egg rolls, J&K style grill has tons of delicious options for its customers. This family owned restaurant is run by our very own junior Keona Dooley

Dooley prides herself in her work, posting about recent recipes that will soon be sold at her family’s restaurant. 

Junior Keona Dooley serves up sumptuous soul food at J & K Style Grill. (Photo submitted by: K. Dooley)

¨J & K has taught me many new aspects of life that you may not get into at school.  Such as being a young CEO, aspects of people and understanding how to ´be the customer´, attention to details, accepting the brutal truth, and many more unique things,¨ said Dooley

J&K has a homey aura that keeps customers coming back for more.

¨My first experience was about 7th or 8th grade after school with my mom,” said frequent customer, junior Jacen Fletter. “Being able to know the owner I was able to talk to someone I talk to at school feeling like a welcoming restaurant. That’s why I want to go back. It makes me feel like I know the people who serve my food.¨ 

Along with their delicious food, J&K treats every customer like family. 

¨J&K has a special vibe since it’s black owned,” Dooley

Not only do you get a phenomenal meal, but also a good experience and hospitality. 

¨J&K has furthered my education with the real world,” said Dooley. “Getting a better understanding of the industry of business and learning how to grow.¨

Not only has Dooley been able to further her education, but she’s also been able to handle her very own business alongside people she’s comfortable with and can grow and learn with. She also handles out of school activities like Gardening Club in addition to the business. 

¨As we all know, working alongside your family can be difficult because they may not understand the differences of at home behavior and the mindset of work. Though it’s just been an on and on growing experience to understand people,” said Dooley.

Manager Tia Morre shared that she has “witnessed and learned that a 16 year old can do it all.”

Dooley is not only a role model for young aspiring leaders, but also an inspiration to people who want to create something special with their family.