Women’s History Month celebrates the remarkable contributions of women who have shaped communities across America. In Compton, women of color have played a vital role in strengthening families, neighborhoods, and local businesses since the 1970s. From civic leadership and entrepreneurship to athletics and the arts, generations of Compton women continue to inspire and empower the next generation while shaping the city’s future.

Founded in 2013 in Compton, Trap Kitchen was built by former rivals Malachi “Spank” Jenkins and Roberto “News” Smith. Starting from a grandmother’s kitchen and selling through Instagram, they transformed hustle into a nationally recognized brand. Blending soul food, Southern comfort, and bold flavors, they grew through pop-ups, food trucks, catering, and cookbooks—proving authenticity, resilience, and digital entrepreneurship can turn second chances into lasting success.