LOCAL LEGENDS: How a family tradition turned into ice cream innovation

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In the heart of Winnipeg, a unique blend of tradition and innovation has been tantalizing the taste buds of locals since 2017.

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Joseph Chaeban, the visionary behind Chaeban Ice Cream, has crafted a sweet empire built on family heritage and a passion for unabashed creativity. As the son of a cheesemaker from North Africa, came to Canada in 1988. Joseph’s journey from his father’s workshop to his ice cream parlour is a testament to the power of embracing one’s roots while daring to dream beyond.

A legacy stirs: Learning the trade

Joseph Chaeban was steeped in the rich cheesemaking traditions from an early age. His father, a celebrated cheesemaker in the North African region, imparted his knowledge and passion for the craft, teaching Joseph the delicate artistry of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. In those moments, standing with his father, Joseph learned the crucial balance of science and art in cheesemaking, lessons that would soon transcend into other culinary ventures.

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“The magic of turning milk into cheese lies not just in the recipe but in the heart and hands of the maker,” Joseph recalls. This foundational philosophy stayed with him as he transitioned from the world of cheese to ice cream’s sweet, indulgent universe.

Let’s open an ice cream shop!

On the first day of winter in 2017, when most people crave warmth rather than frozen treats, Joseph boldly opened the doors to Chaeban Ice Cream at 390 Osborne St. It seemed an audacious move, but Joseph was confident in his vision. Embracing the chilly backdrop as a metaphor for his products’ refreshing uniqueness, he introduced tastes that warmed the soul. The response was overwhelming, a testament to the allure of quality and creativity over conventional norms.

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“Sometimes, the best way to stand out is to do the unexpected,” Joseph explains, reflecting on his unusual launch date. “I knew I had something special to share and couldn’t wait for a sunny day to start. Passion doesn’t wait, and neither does potential.”

By 2022, Joseph had revisited his cheesemaking roots, bringing his dual expertise full circle. Drawing upon the rich tapestry of skills learned from his father, Joseph expanded Chaeban Ice Cream into cheesemaking. The move was not just a business expansion but a heartfelt homage to his heritage, further enriched by his years of creating gourmet ice cream.

This new venture showcased cheeses that quickly found their way onto Co-ops, Sobeys, and Safeway shelves. Its rich cream cheese resonates with the authenticity and passion of its creator, reminding customers that each bite tells a story in the making.

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Creating legends: The local impact

With a dedicated team of 25, Chaeban Ice Cream is more than just a place to satisfy one’s sweet tooth. This crew not only masters the art of customer service but also embodies the spirit of community and inspiration that Joseph promotes. Together, they’ve crafted a workplace culture that values empowerment, creativity, and mutual respect.

New flavours like “Rocky Ricardo” and “Mariah Candy Cane” have made waves among Chaeban Ice Cream’s ever-popular lineup. These flavours capture the joy and playfulness that define Chaeban Ice Cream. Each flavour celebrates the senses and is meticulously crafted to provide the community with a product and an experience.

The entrepreneurial journey has been marked by challenges and triumphs growing Joseph and the team. Navigating the competitive food industry from ice cream to cheese requires ingenuity, persistence, and an unwavering belief in one’s vision.

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Joseph’s story is emblematic of the entrepreneurial spirit, courageous risk-taking, relentless innovation, and the understanding that setbacks are merely setups for comebacks. Truly the mindset of “Local Legends,” which we celebrate in our community. “The journey of entrepreneurship is a constant evolution,” Joseph shares. “It’s about pushing boundaries, learning from every challenge, and finding joy in creating. Whether it’s ice cream or cheese, each endeavour is a new opportunity to connect with people through flavours and stories.”

A sweet future

As Chaeban Ice Cream continues to delight taste buds in Winnipeg and beyond, Josep remains committed to expanding his horizons while remaining true to his roots. His story is a reminder that carrying forward family legacies while forging new paths can create something truly exceptional. With an eye on the future, Joseph is exploring ways to further innovate within the food industry, all while staying deeply connected to the community that has embraced his creations. Whether introducing new flavours or developing unique cheese products, Joseph is passionate about delivering quality and a touch of his journey to every customer.

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Looking ahead, Joseph envisions expanding his brand beyond local shelves and storefronts. He dreams of Chaeban products becoming a staple in households nationwide, sharing the artistry and passion of a second-generation cheesemaker with an international audience.

Reflecting on his journey, Joseph said, “Innovation is the ability to see change as an opportunity, not a threat.” This ethos has fueled his unorthodox approaches and bold decisions, including his choice to open an ice cream shop in the depths of winter. Over the years, one guiding principle has come from his father’s teachings: “Every craft is a blend of patience and persistence.” For Joseph, this goes beyond cheesemaking and ice cream; reminding him to nurture his ventures with care and dedication is key.

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In an industry where change is the only constant, Joseph Chaeban stands out as a beacon of innovative thinking and deep-rooted tradition. His journey from North Africa to Winnipeg, from cheesemaking to ice cream artistry, illuminates the endless possibilities that arise when one marries heritage with a courageous vision for the future.

As consumers savour each scoop of his indulgent ice cream or each bite of his artisanal cheese, they are partaking in more than a mere product. They are tasting the essence of a family’s legacy, innovation, and the determined spirit of a man who dared to bring a dream to life against the odds. Joseph’s story is a compelling reminder that you can craft a world full of flavour and impact with passion and perseverance.

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Through all his successes and challenges, Joseph Chaeban inspires many, proving that the best way to honour the past is to build upon it and daringly shape the future. Visit their website today for winter hours and menus at chaebanicecream.com, or visit them at 390 Osborne St. Call them at 204-475-6226 and tell Joseph that Art sent you to get some inspiring treats.

— Art Alexander is a leadership expert and the founder of Art Alexander and Associates. With a deep understanding of people and business, Art helps organizations thrive through leadership training and DISC personality assessments. You can reach Art at art@artalexander.ca

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