Ever wonder how much you can achieve in Canada after arriving as an International Student? Prepare to be inspired as we take you on a journey of immigration success. In today's globalized world, immigration matters, especially in Canada. Immigrants bring unique cultures, experiences, and skills that enrich the communities they join. This captivating blog post series focuses on remarkable individuals who are making a positive impact in their new homes. Our first feature is Shakirat Edoho, a Nigerian-Canadian, a Chartered Accountant, and a serial entrepreneur in the Food sector in Canada. She is the brilliant mind behind 9jafoodie, Lose It Nigerian ( LIN), Jollof Code & the latest, Atare Foods.
Shakirat Edoho exemplifies how immigrants enhance Canadian society with their distinctive cultures, experiences, and skills. Starting as an international student from Nigeria, Shakirat embarked on a remarkable journey, successfully transitioning through various immigration statuses, including the Post-Graduate Work Permit and permanent residence, ultimately becoming a Canadian citizen. Her story is an awe-inspiring testament to the endless possibilities that await those who dare to dream and pursue their passions in Canada.
Join us as we delve into Shakirat Edoho's incredible impact, entrepreneurial achievements, and mouthwatering culinary creations. Discover how she is redefining the food industry, bridging cultures, and leaving a lasting legacy. Stay tuned for an adventure filled with delectable flavors, entrepreneurial insights, and the vibrant spirit of immigrant success in the Great White North.
Shakirat, graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a BSC. in Business Economics (Honours). After working as a Management Accountant in the Provincial and Municipal Government in Saskatchewan for over ten years and building her businesses on the side, she launched into full-time entrepreneurship.
How it all started
Shakirat embarked on her entrepreneurial journey through her popular African Food Blog - 9jafoodie. Her blog became a global platform to share her love for African cuisine and recipes.
However, she noticed a glaring gap - African foods were not recognized for their health benefits and weight loss potential, despite being incredibly nutritious. Motivated to make a difference, Shakirat pursued certifications in Clinical Weight Loss and Nutrition to educate Africans on losing weight with their traditional meals. This inspired her to create Lose It Nigerian (LIN), a lifestyle dietary improvement based on the Nigerian diet. To date, her meal plans have been embraced by thousands of people across numerous countries.
Driven by her passion for African foods, Shakirat went even further. She desired to cultivate her favorite African ingredients in Canada, leading to the establishment of Jollof Code. This venture educates and supplies sought-after seedlings to the African community in Canada, bringing a taste of home to their new environment.
Shakirat's entrepreneurial journey inspires us to start where we are, as opportunities are endless. She realized a gap in the market for high-quality, ready-to-use West African-inspired food products. This led her to create Atare Foods, named after the Alligator Pepper, a close relative of the Grain of Paradise.
Atare Foods offers flavorful, convenient, and innovative food options that excite the taste buds. The company embodies the Yoruba people of Nigeria's belief that the Atare spice-grain is the grain of good. The brand embodies wholeness, boldness, and robustness, which is evident in its product offerings.
Atare Foods currently offers three products in the market: Atasu, Jollof Now, and Sweet Plantain Chips.
Atasu is a perfect blend of peppers, onions, and spices that adds flavor and heat to any dish.
Jollof Now is a ready-to-use jollof base that can be used as a marinade for chicken or as a base for rice dishes.
The Sweet Plantain Chips are the ultimate snack - perfectly sweet, salty, and crunchy.
Atare Foods offers a delicious and convenient way to experience the flavors of West Africa, and its commitment to giving back to the community makes it even more remarkable. We encourage people to support immigrant-owned businesses like Atare Foods. Follow @atarefoods on Instagram to stay updated on new product offerings and recipe ideas.
Shakirat inspires immigrants to realize their dreams. She also greatly represents what Canada means when it says immigration matters. By creating jobs, adding to the Canadian economy, and impacting her community, Shakirat is making an incredible impact in Canada and we hope this inspires you.