Imani Green on Creativity, Hospitality, and Breaking Barriers

Some careers are chosen, and some careers find you. For Imani Green, mixology came into her life through a chance decision to join student guilds during graduate school. That choice has since turned into a passion, a career, and now—her debut as a competitor in the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition.

Imani’s story is proof that inspiration can come from unexpected places and that a single opportunity can reshape your path in extraordinary ways.

From Student Guilds to Speakeasies

Imani’s introduction to hospitality was not the typical route of bar shifts or restaurant jobs in her early twenties. Instead, it began in the classrooms of Florida International University in Miami, where she studied Hospitality and Tourism Management with a focus on event management. Seeking both friendship and hands-on experience, she joined the FIU Bartenders Guild and FIU Wine Guild.

These student-led organizations provided her with more than just practice; they gave her an entire community and ignited a spark. What started as curiosity quickly grew into passion, and before long, she was dedicating countless hours to learning the craft of mixology. Her commitment was clear—by the end of her program, she had served as treasurer for both guilds and earned a full scholarship for her work in sustainable hospitality.

Alongside her studies, Imani built her skills in a real-world setting at Bar Kaiju, a monster-themed speakeasy in Miami known for its creativity and award-winning cocktails. With over 1,000 hours of hands-on training and mentorship from industry leaders, she gained more than technical knowledge—she found confidence, artistry, and a home behind the bar.

A Personal Style: Thoughtful, Expressive, Fun

Imani describes her cocktail style as thoughtful, expressive, and fun. Her drinks are intentional yet approachable, with layers that spark curiosity. She gravitates toward ingredients that others might shy away from—pickled vegetables, seaweed, olives, and even onions—balancing these bold notes with delicate florals and warm spices like cardamom and cinnamon.

This willingness to push boundaries sets her apart. In an industry where classic cocktails often dominate menus, Imani isn’t afraid to introduce her guests to something unexpected. For her, a cocktail is more than a drink—it’s a way to surprise, delight, and even challenge perceptions of what hospitality can be.

Inspiration Everywhere

Culture, food, music—Imani finds creativity in every corner of life. She has a gift for translating experiences into flavors. A dish at dinner can spark the blueprint for a new cocktail. A song can inspire a flavor combination. Even the mood of a guest becomes a starting point for a personalized creation.

This instinctive approach reflects the heart of modern hospitality. Consumers today want more than service; they want storytelling and connection. Businesses that understand this, as Imani does, create lasting impressions. For bars and restaurants, it’s a reminder that inspiration is a business advantage: thoughtful, guest-centered experiences keep people coming back.

Women in Hospitality: Leading by Example

While still early in her career, Imani already recognizes her role as a woman in hospitality. She values the sense of community she’s found and the chance to lead by example. She has faced her share of challenges—moments where her presence wasn’t taken seriously, or where she had to prove herself more than male peers. Yet each challenge became fuel, making every breakthrough even more meaningful.

For businesses, her perspective underscores the importance of creating equitable spaces. When women are supported, their creativity and leadership can shape entire guest experiences. For consumers, supporting women like Imani means more inclusive, dynamic, and thoughtful hospitality spaces.

Inspirations That Guide Her

Imani’s list of role models is long, spanning family, colleagues, and industry leaders. From her mom and grandma to women she’s worked with at Lorem Ipsum, she draws strength and inspiration from those who model resilience and creativity. She admires trailblazers like Kapri Robinson, Fawn Weaver, and the team behind Pronghorn, a program dedicated to supporting Black professionals in spirits.

By naming her inspirations so freely, Imani reminds us that hospitality thrives on mentorship and community. Businesses can learn from this—success grows stronger when knowledge and encouragement are shared.

Looking Ahead to Battle of the Babes

This year’s Battle of the Babes will be Imani’s first cocktail competition, and she couldn’t be more excited. For her, the event is about more than drinks; it’s about community, creativity, and celebration. She looks forward to learning from her peers, showcasing her own artistry, and contributing to an event that empowers women behind the bar.

Guests can expect a warm, approachable energy from her—someone who is just as eager to connect as she is to impress. While the details of her competition cocktail remain under wraps, one thing is certain: it will reflect her thoughtful, expressive, and fun approach, along with the depth of her personal journey.

For consumers, mixologists like Imani make nights out more meaningful. They remind us that hospitality is not just about what’s in the glass, but about connection, culture, and storytelling. For businesses, her career is an example of how investing in training, mentorship, and diverse voices pays off. A bar or restaurant that supports talent like hers doesn’t just offer drinks—it builds loyalty, reputation, and a stronger community.

At HoCo, we believe stories like Imani’s are the backbone of hospitality’s future. Our work focuses on creating opportunities for businesses and professionals to thrive, from private events to strategic partnerships. By amplifying voices like Imani’s, we’re helping to shape a more inclusive, innovative, and community-driven industry.

Celebrate at the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes

Join us on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at Merchant + Trade in Charlotte for the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition. Experience the creativity of women like Imani Green and celebrate the artistry that defines modern hospitality.

Your ticket includes 8 craft cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a curated swag bag, and an unforgettable evening on Charlotte’s premier rooftop.