WHO IS MATEO ?
A GIFT FROM GOD
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Mateo’s Munchies is a family-owned catering business founded in July 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic by Chef Shannae Duncan. The inspiration behind our name, ‘Mateo,’ comes from Shannae’s 7-year-old son, whose name means “gift from God.” Mateo, who has autism, played a key role in the creation of this business. At its core, Mateo’s Munchies is rooted in love, family, and faith.
During the lockdown, Shannae and Mateo spent countless hours bonding in the kitchen. Mateo’s autism meant he was often a selective eater, so Shannae created bite-sized, colorful, and fun dishes in the hopes of expanding his palate. Together, they made comforting and delicious spreads that turned every mealtime into a joyful and playful experience.
One day, as they were brainstorming their next kitchen adventure, Shannae asked Mateo, “Ok Mateo, what are we going to munch on today?” That simple question sparked a lightbulb moment—and the idea for Mateo’s Munchies was born.
What started as a way to nurture her son’s love for food has blossomed into a catering business that celebrates family, inclusivity, and faith. Today, we continue to honor those values by creating flavorful, thoughtful, and unique catering experiences for every client, while also spreading a message of love and community.
CHEF STORY
-CHEF SHANNAE DUNCAN
Chef Shannae first developed a love for cooking at the age of 6, witnessing her mom hustle and operate a cook shop trying to make ends meet as a single mother. Her first actual moments in the kitchen though were with her grandmother, who taught her traditional family recipes from their home country Jamaica. She later migrated to Canada at the age of 14 to live with her father who was also a cook and an entrepreneur. By the time Shannae was 16 and old enough to work, she made her first steps into the food industry. She's worked in multiple restaurants across toronto, from family style to fine dinning. Shannae later graduated high school and went straight to college where she studied Hospitality & Tourism Management at Centennial College. One of her favourite courses she excelled in was food & beverage and culinary skills. This knowlege drove her interest in the industry even more causing her to play multiple positions in the field. She's worked her way up from developing customer service skills as a lead hostess to becoming a hard working server and later a talented chef in her community where she feeds hundreds of homeless and less fortunate ones in the Toronto-Weston area. The 30 year old mom-preneur's passion, dedication and skills are truly aligned with her God given purpose.
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OUR PURPOSE
OUR MISSION & CORE VALUES
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*CREATIVITY & PASSION
*EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE & VALUE
*COMMUNITY CONNECTION
*FAITH , FAMILY & LOVE
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At Mateo’s Munchies, our mission is to bring people together and create meaningful experiences for everyone we serve—our clients, our team, our partners, and our community. Together, we are the Munchies Family.
We’re dedicated to being a leader in the catering industry by delivering creative ideas, outstanding service, and food that not only tastes amazing but leaves a lasting impression. Through faith, love, and commitment to excellence, we strive to spread joy and make every moment special.
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'' For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.''
Jeremiah 29:11
