Celebrating Black History Month: Latashia Malone, Avenue C Lead, Canteen

Latashia ‘Tasha’ Malone has been working with Compass Group a little more than two years. Once an aspiring nurse, she found a new way to take care of people through the hospitality industry. This busy mom of two boys and three adopted daughters started with Compass as a Route Associate for Canteen and now serves as the Lead for Avenue C, Canteen’s self-service micro market solution that offers food and drinks to customers in a customizable retail space. Read her story below.

What does Black History Month mean to you?
I think it’s important not only for black people, but for people of all colors to understand history, especially in the climate that we are in today. You can’t treat people differently because of their race. It’s important to treat everybody with respect.

Who are some of the notable figures that inspire you and why?
I would say Dr. Martin Luther King because he believed so deeply in humanity and he wanted to make sure everybody was treated equally. Harriet Tubman is another person who inspired me because she’s a great role model for me and also stood up for women so that we can have the right to vote.

How do you try to live the philosophy of those two people within Compass and your community?
I always treat everybody with respect and try to help everybody. If I know someone is struggling, I try to lead them in a better direction. I want to set an example for my kids by teaching them the value of hard work, determination and respect.

What is it about your job as Avenue C Lead for Canteen that you enjoy so much?
I love being out on the road because it gives me a chance to see a lot of different things. I love listening to other people and helping customers solve problems. I believe this is something I’ll continue to do until I retire because I really enjoy it and I know I’m bringing my skills to the table to help where I can.

How do you show up as your best self even when things are tough?
Praying gives me the strength to get through every day with a smile. Even if something is going on in my life, I still keep my head up high to keep a positive vibe.

How do you want people to remember you? What do you want your history at Compass to be?
I believe if you work hard, people will appreciate the effort that you give them. I always tell my son who plays basketball, “When you are on the court, do your best, you never know who is watching you!” There are times you may not think people are watching you but continue to do your best and be yourself, and people will acknowledge your hard work. That’s what I try to keep in mind. I am always dependable, no matter who is watching. I am more willing than ever to do the work and more determined to be the best that I can be. That’s how I want to be remembered.