Olando Charles is a passionate advocate for social justice, bringing a diverse skill set that encompasses food service, curriculum development, leadership, and culinary training.

Olando serves as the Kitchen Manager for the Flatbush Central facility in Brooklyn. In this role, Olando manages all aspects of the culinary infrastructure and programming at the FC facility, as well as acts as the primary liasion to food-focused tenants, licensees, and incubator members. He is charged with developing go-to-market strategies for Mangrove FC food members, including identifying and managing B2B and institutional purchasers, as well as supporting the creation of marketing assets for food businesses and identifying industry mentors and leaders to support business development. He is also a co-instructor in the Mangrove's Community Business Academy.

Having previously served as the program lead for the CHOW Institute Program, he delivered comprehensive training for restaurant workers, covering both front and back-of-house skills, safety, sexual harassment prevention, bartending, and more. Olando is also certified in Mental Health First Aid, underscoring his commitment to individual well-being. In 2021, he spearheaded the creation of business programs for restaurant workers.

Olando's dedication extends to charitable work, theological studies, and academic pursuits. His achievements include recognition as one of "40 under 40" in New York City and receiving the State Labor Rising Star award, all while providing mentorship to small businesses for their growth and lasting impact.