Sammy Mila
Owner, Crème
Age: 33
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
I started my career as a culinary specialist/food stylist at 20 years old.
I started a successful small business at 31 years old.
I am one of the youngest members of the Les Dames d'Escoffier Greater Des Moines Chapter, starting in 2021.
In 2023, I won the Iowa Restaurant Association's Emerging Leader award.
What's your biggest passion, and why?
Community is my biggest passion because rising tides lift all boats, and I strongly believe the support of your neighbors will lead you to success. When one person wins, everyone who supports them also wins.
What are your goals in your role at work?
One of my main goals as the owner of the bakery is to create a pocket of safety and comfort to anyone that walks through the door. I want everyone to feel seen, heard and accepted with us.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
Focus on food rescue and helping to feed our community through outlets like community fridges.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
The last time I was in Thailand, I met an older woman selling bananas out of her boat. She had so much pride in her product. She was so happy to have met me and was so gentle and gracious. I wanted to feel what she felt. I wanted to bring joy to people by being proud of what I do, showing it and sharing that joy through simple pleasures – like cake and cupcakes.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I want to connect with more Asian American and Pacific Islander kids and young adults and help them in their journey in cooking and/or business in relation to food. I've gained so much knowledge in the past two years – in addition to my 10-plus years as a culinary specialist/food stylist for Dotdash Meredith – and I want to use it to help others grow.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
Network. I can't emphasize that enough. There are tons of professionals out there with knowledge and advice that can assist you in your growth. Find them and keep them in your professional circle to help you as you continue your journey. Stay relevant and help them remember who you are.
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
We need more incubator programs to help small – specifically minority- and women-owned – businesses build their network and grow their brand; programs that come with kitchen access, professional access and assistance with licensing and legal knowledge in a way that is easy to absorb; and something more than just a website they can visit or a number they can call.
What's one fun fact about you?
My dream job was to go work for Jelly Belly and be part of the team that creates the realistic jelly bean flavors.
Hobbies: Thrift shopping, eating at places I've never heard of, collecting designer toys.
One word that describes you: Visionary.
What is your favorite local restaurant? Bar Nico.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. Fox's “Crime Scene Kitchen.”
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
Supporting local businesses!
Is there anything else people should know about you?
I'm a first-generation Asian American, and my history is a big part of my success and my struggle. I'm open, transparent and excited to share my story with anyone wanting to know more!