Growing up in Ohio, Isha Rae found her passion for cooking deeply rooted in family traditions. Transitioning from a career in management and customer service, she co-founded Rae’s Catering and Puerto Rican Food with her mother Char Kay Desbin in 2020, just as the pandemic started. The business serves a variety of soul food and authentic Puerto Rican dishes, catering events ranging from birthday parties to corporate meetings. Despite her mother's retirement, Rae remains committed to sharing their culinary creations with the community.

Inspired by her mother and her daughter’s grandmother, Isha Rae developed a love for cooking at an early age. Her first experience in the kitchen involved preparing her mom’s mac and cheese. This foundation led her to explore diverse cuisines, including learning how to cook Puerto Rican food. When Rae decided to establish a family business, it was driven by a desire to create a secondary income source while fostering unity among relatives. Their offerings include classic soul food like fried chicken and collard greens, alongside traditional Puerto Rican treats such as pastelitos.

Rae’s commitment extends beyond commercial success; she prioritizes meaningful engagements that benefit the local community. Every month, she participates in salsa dancing nights at the Avalon Ballroom, where her food consistently sells out. By choosing jobs that contribute positively to society, she ensures her contributions are impactful. Rae emphasizes accessibility, aiming to make her cuisine available to everyone in Boulder.

Through her efforts, Isha Rae not only honors her heritage but also enriches the culinary landscape of Boulder. Her dedication to quality and community engagement makes her a pivotal figure in reshaping how people experience food in this region. As part of a series highlighting influential women in the food industry, Rae exemplifies innovation and cultural preservation through gastronomy.