Josie Smith-Malave, a celebrity chef and restaurant owner, has announced her candidacy  for Mayor of Wilton Manors. 

Malave is now the third candidate running for mayor.

“I’ve lived my entire life outside of the box,” she said in a press release announcing her candidacy.

The release says Smith-Malave will “bring the community together, propel the city forward, represent diversity, offer a fresh perspective, and create tangible results.”

Smith-Malave is the owner of Bubbles & Pearls in Wilton Manors. She is also known for her appearances on Bravo’s Top Chef series. More recently her struggles with COVID-19 have been written about in other news outlets. She tested positive for the coronavirus twice since the pandemic hit Florida.

The press release notes she is not a “career politician” and over the years has supported a variety of non-profits like No Kid Hungry, Junior Achievements, Boys & Girls Club, HANDY, and Covenant House.

“She is an effective conscious leader, a visionary, an experienced community organizer, and a savvy entrepreneur,” the press release reads.

In addition to Smith-Malave, current City Commissioner Julie Carson and former mayor Scott Newton are also running for mayor.

Visit SFGN.com/WMelection2020 for more election news in Wilton Manors.