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Meet the startGBC #WhyNotMe August 2026 Entrepreneur Spotlight: Jex Paisley, Founder & Executive Chef, Transcend by Jex Catering
July marked Caribbean Heritage Month in Canada, and yet in Toronto, no August would be the same without the celebration of Caribana and the flavours and culture of the Caribbean! So this month, StartGBC wants to highlight an amazing George Brown alumni entrepreneur, whose company, Transcend by Jex Catering, celebrates through the creation of glorious food!
We had the opportunity recently to sit down with Jex over amazing food created by the Transcend by Jex Catering team and learn more about Jex, his creations and his entrepreneurial journey.
About Jex
Chef Jex Paisley grew up in Jamaica with a simple, unshakeable belief: that food is the most powerful language on earth. It transcends borders, bridges cultures, and transforms a meal into a memory.
That belief became his calling - and it has taken him around the world. After formal culinary training, Chef Jex spent two decades honing his craft across four continents. He has cooked in five-star luxury resorts and aboard exclusive cruise lines. He has presided over the fairways of championship golf clubs and catered the most intimate celebrity gatherings. He has orchestrated grand events for over 800 guests and sat quietly with seniors, crafting menus that nourish not just the body but the spirit.
Transcend by Jex Catering provides catering services for private, corporate, and special events, as well as providing Caribbean fusion chef-inspired meal prep services.
Academic Background
George Brown School of Culinary, Culinary Management 2010
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
I was raised to think independently, be creative and use my skills to create room for opportunities.
Why did you create your business?
After working for over two decades and learning from a wide range of chefs, I wanted to share my experience with my clients and their guests at each event and create memorable experiences.
What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?
Watching a thought manifest into reality, hearing how it has improved customers' lives, and developing the future leaders on my team.
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Find your passion, seek mentorship and stay focused as you build.
Any organisations or learning resources you would recommend?
Find a marketing branding company.
Any books or podcasts you would recommend?
Boss Moves by Myron Golden, Think and grow rich by Napoleon Hill and Carrots and sticks don’t work by Paul L Marciano.
The Meta secret laws of attraction on YouTube.
Website and Socials
Website: www.transcendbyjex.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transcendbyjex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jex-paisley