Connie DeSousa & John Jackson are award-winning chefs, restaurateurs, television personalities, and co-founders of CHAR Hospitality Group, one of Canada’s most respected independent restaurant groups. Known for their signature approach to live-fire cooking, whole-animal butchery, and celebrating Alberta’s producers, they are the creative force behind acclaimed concepts including CHARCUT, charbar, Connie & John’s Pizza, and several other hospitality ventures.

Together, they have represented Canada on the international culinary stage, earned numerous national restaurant accolades, and appeared on multiple Food Network series, most recently competing as Team Canada BBQ on Pitmasters. Beyond the kitchen, they are passionate mentors, entrepreneurs, endurance athletes, and advocates for Canadian food culture, inspiring others through their relentless pursuit of excellence, resilience, and community.