Female Entrepreneurs in Hospitality: International Women’s Day 2024
On Friday 8th March, which is International Women’s Day 2024, Be Inclusive Hospitality proudly celebrates the achievements of female entrepreneurs who are shaping the hospitality industry landscape. Under the theme #InspireInclusion, we spotlight visionary founders who have transformed dreams into reality.
Joké Bakare – Chishuru:
Joké Bakare, the Chef Founder of the Michelin Star West African Restaurant Chishuru. From a home cook to a successful restaurant owner, Joké’s journey is a testament to her talent and resilience. After successfully launching her first restaurant in Brixton in 2020, Joké Bakare’s culinary prowess swiftly gained a devoted following. This support paved the way for the establishment of Chishuru 2.0 in Fitzrovia by mid-2023, marking a significant evolution in her journey.
@chishuru.
Bharti Radix – BloomsYard:
Bharti Radix, Founder of Café Wine Bar BloomsYard, transitioned from a Finance Director to birthing her dream of a modern, all-day affair in 2020. With five locations to her credit, Bharti’s entrepreneurial spirit shines.
@bloomsyard.
Sara Assad-Mannings – Bunhead Bakery:
Sara Assad-Mannings, Founder of Bunhead Bakery, emerged as a self-taught pastry chef amid the pandemic. Rooted in her Palestinian heritage, Sara shares culture through delectable creations and is currently crowdfunding for the first bricks-and-mortar site.
@bunheadbakes.
At Eko Brewery, founded by Helena Adedipe, inspiration from the US microbrewery scene led to its establishment in 2018. Since then, Eko Brewery has emerged as a trailblazer, introducing an innovative range of African-inspired vegan beers. The team are actively crowdfunding to support the development of their brewery in Peckham.
@ekobrewery.
America Brewer – Oastbrook Estate:
America Brewer, the winemaker and owner of Oastbrook Estate, renowned for sustainable viticulture and award-winning English wines. Follow her journey from planting the first vines in 2018 to becoming a prominent producer.
@oastbrook.
Ayanna Fisher – Ayannas
Since 2011, Caribbean cuisines have been celebrated by Ayanna Fisher, the co-founder of a contemporary Caribbean restaurant in East London. A finalist in the 2023 BIH Spotlight Awards, at her restaurant you can experience the elegant ambience with a grand piano backdrop.
@ayannaslondon.
Ayesha Kalaji – Queen of Cups:
Ayesha Kalaji is the owner and head chef of the Queen of Cups pub in Glastonbury. Honoured with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, Ayesha’s Middle Eastern restaurant has been recognised at the 2022 BIH Spotlight Awards. Follow her journey at @glastoqueenofcups.
Amy Poon – Poon’s London:
Entrepreneur, food enthusiast, and Chinese food ambassador Amy Poon resurrects a family brand with her grocery and deli business. Amy was the winner in the East & Southeast Asian food category at the 2023 BIH Spotlight Awards.
@amy_poon.
Celebrate these inspiring women who are leaving an indelible mark on the hospitality industry. Join us in promoting inclusion, diversity, and empowerment. #InspireInclusion #WomenInHospitality