Grant Spotlight: Charlotte Han ‘27 Nutrition Journey

Janina Manaloto ‘26

Over the summer, Charlotte Han ‘27 launched a pop-up bakery called “Grain & Loaf co” where she sells baked goods with a healthier twist. She is funded by the Matthews Fund Grant, an award based on merit that promotes personal and academic growth. Through this grant, Charlotte has combined her passion for baking with nutritional science into something that she could give back to the community. 

Her involvement in the cross-country and crew teams has fueled her interest in nutrition, leading her to become more mindful of the foods she consumes. She started testing different recipes, eventually deciding to start a business from it. Last summer, she started building her business through selling her products at farmers' markets. Back home in Toronto, she would bring baked goods to senior centers and present the ingredients in her recipes, educating her local community on nutrition. She has sold many banana breads, scones, and healthier versions of cakes. She has also hosted workshops on how to cook healthier recipes, emphasizing healthy and nutritious ingredients with high fiber, protein, and natural sugars.

One thing she has learned from this journey is that people will be there to support you. Initially, she doubted herself, thinking that no one would want to buy what she sold. Eventually, she realized that she would be making a positive impact in her community. Through this experience of putting herself out there, she has been able to meet new people through her business and learn about their reasoning and where they are coming from. Over time, each supportive interaction has inspired her to continue with her business. Hearing positive feedback has reassured her that her work has value beyond the kitchen and can resonate with others. These conversations with others in her community strengthen her resilience and ability to lead.

In the future, Charlotte hopes to study medicine, more specifically, the field of endocrinology and nutrition. She is passionate about continuing to explore the connection between athletic performance and food science. Through this business, she has developed her baking skills and fueled her interest in the field of food science. What started as a simple hobby has grown into a passion for nutrition and commitment to health and community impact. Through the Matthews Fund Grant, Charlotte has expanded her studies of nutritional science beyond the classroom, reflecting the fund’s mission of personal and academic growth.