Kenyans have continued to break boundaries in the diaspora by essentially transforming their entrepreneurial dreams into thriving business ventures.
Caroline Gitonga is one of those who converted her dream into a successful business based in Atlanta, Georgia, US, after 20 years of being employed.
Speaking to Chams Media, Gitonga stated that she quit working for Double Tree (a hospitality firm) in the US to set up her restaurant, African Soulfood.
The icing on the cake was that she launched the business with her daughter, Tracy Gitonga. The idea was birthed from several catering businesses Gitonga served.
She researched and identified a market niche to set up a restaurant offering African cuisines.
"I realised that people would not have a place to enjoy Kenyan food. Whenever I would have a tray of food, those who sampled it loved it.
"Based on the numerous enquiries I received from Kenyan churches here and other events, I felt the need to open a business. It took us six months to renovate the place and launch it," she stated.
Caroline noted that she took up after the chefs who had perfected the art of Western Cuisine, comprising beef brisket, egusi fufu, cassava leaf and grilled lamb, among others.
Regarding East African dishes, the restaurant focuses on pilau, githeri, mukimo, fish and other Kenyan delicacies.
According to Tracy, the key to success in the business is never giving up and dedicating time and resources to succeed.
"We're both passionate about it and wanted to make a difference as Kenyans residing in America," Tracy stated.
She advised Kenyans in the diaspora and those seeking the proverbial American dream to be resilient in transforming their ideas into realities.
"Anything is possible but you need to have the desire. Keep working on it on a daily basis and never stop pushing further and wanting better for yourself and for those around you," she added.
The restaurant has hosted several key figures, including Africa's fastest athlete Ferdinand Omanyala, renowned music group Sauti Sol and musician David Mathenge (Nameless).
