Founder of Panacheeza
JANESSA
“As a vegan I was missing out on my favorite dishes, so I reimagined Parmesan using plant-based ingredients. Now my family and I can experience the traditional Italian dishes I grew up with and, frankly, they taste even better!”
Our Story: Honoring Heritage, Health, and Heart
Janessa’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in her European heritage, where traditions of resilience, family, and flavorful cooking were passed down through generations. Her unique blend of Maltese, Italian and British ancestry infuses her creations with an old-world sensibility—crafted with care, inspired by memories, and cherished in every bite.
A Legacy from Italy to England
On her father's side, Janessa’s roots stretch from England to Italy. Her grandfather, Vernon Martin, served in the British Army as a Royal Engineer, stationed in Italy, where he met Lillian Benettini—Janessa's Nonna. The pair wed and welcomed their first child in England, before deciding to pursue new opportunities in Toronto, Canada in 1954.
Maltese Heart and Soul
In 1954, John and Rita began their journey together. Driven by hopes for a brighter future, they immigrated to Toronto, Canada, where they lovingly raised six children. Rita embraced her role as a homemaker, enriching her family with the flavors of her Mediterranean heritage. Known for her handmade ravioli, prepared entirely from scratch, Rita’s cooking was a celebration of wholesome, clean ingredients and the warmth of family gatherings.
A Granddaughter’s Bond
Janessa, the first granddaughter of
Rita’s ten grandchildren, shared a
profound connection with her
grandmother. Their bond was that of
a devoted grandmother and
granddaughter, strengthened by
countless hours spent together in the
kitchen.
Side by side, they explored Toronto’s
culinary treasures, from health food stores
to bakeries and cultural hubs in “Little
Malta.” Rita’s kitchen was a sanctuary of
tradition and wellness, where simple
ingredients became magical meals and
timeless lessons. Under Rita’s guidance,
Janessa learned that health and wellness
begin with what we eat.
Rita’s curiosity for new foods led her to
introduce Janessa to innovative
ingredients like tofu noodles, a bold choice
at the time. Inspired by her grandmother’s
passion for wellness, Janessa adopted a
plant-based lifestyle, reshaping her
culinary approach and building a pantry
dedicated to whole, plant-powered foods
in an era when such options were rare.
The Birth of Panacheeza
Panacheeza Today
