The journey of entrepreneurship often arises from a deeply personal connection to one's roots and experiences. For me, it all began with a quest to find chocolates reminiscent of my homeland after resettling as a refugee in Canada. As a mother of three, yearning to create a sense of home for my family, I embarked on a mission to fill a void in the market by bringing Middle Eastern-inspired chocolates and gifts that celebrate tradition and culture, evoking a sense of nostalgia and cherished memories.
Arriving in Canada as a refugee, I carried with me the memories and flavors of my homeland in the Middle East. Amidst the challenges of resettlement and adapting to a new country, I found solace in the familiar tastes of home. However, when I was expecting my third child, a desire to share these flavors with my family and community led me on a journey of exploration and creativity.
As I searched for chocolate giveaways for my new baby boy, I was struck by the absence of options that resonated with my cultural heritage. I had to prepare the tray for giveaways by myself (photo attached) but I was not satisfied with chocolate quality or flavors.
Drawing upon my love for Middle Eastern flavors, I saw an opportunity to fill this gap in the market. Thus, the idea of Middle Eastern-inspired chocolates and gifts was born out of a desire to preserve and share the culinary traditions of my homeland, infusing each creation with a sense of nostalgia and cherished memories.
With a vision to celebrate the richness and diversity of Middle Eastern culture, I set out to build a brand that would honor tradition while embracing innovation. From designing elegant packaging adorned with motifs inspired by Arabic calligraphy to selecting premium ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers, every aspect of the brand was infused with authenticity and care, ensuring that each piece of chocolate brought back memories and a sense of nostalgia.
Central to the success of my business was the cultivation of relationships with suppliers across the Middle East. Despite the distance, I found ways to connect with local producers, ensuring that each piece of chocolate told a story of tradition and transporting customers to a place of fond memories and warm nostalgia with every bite.
In line with my own journey as a refugee, I am committed to giving back to the community that has supported me. That's why a portion of our sales is dedicated to initiatives focused on empowering refugees economically. By providing opportunities for education, training, and entrepreneurship, we aim to support refugees in building sustainable livelihoods and forging new beginnings.
As a refugee and mother of three, the journey of entrepreneurship presented its share of challenges. From balancing the demands of parenthood with the responsibilities of running a business to navigating the complexities of starting a venture in a new country, I encountered obstacles at every turn. Yet, fueled by determination and fueled by the desire to create a sense of home for my family and community, I persevered.
Today, my business stands as a testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of cultural exchange. Through our exquisite chocolates and gifts, we strive to spread joy and foster connections, bridging cultures and bringing a taste of the Middle East to homes around the world. Whether it's a box of chocolates or a gift basket along with other products, each offering is a reflection of the love and warmth that defines Middle Eastern hospitality, evoking cherished memories and a sense of nostalgia in every bite.
As I look to the future, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my passion with others and to create a sense of belonging for my family and community. With each new day, I am inspired to continue expanding my business, exploring new flavors, and reaching even more hearts and homes with the magic of Middle Eastern-inspired chocolates and gifts that bring back memories and a sense of cherished nostalgia.
In the tapestry of life, every thread carries with it a story of resilience, hope, and the power of human connection. My journey from refugee to entrepreneur is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. Through the creation of Middle Eastern-inspired chocolates and gifts, I have found a way to honor my heritage, celebrate my culture, and create a sense of home for my family and community. And as I continue on this path, I am reminded that the greatest gift we can give is the gift of WUD (love) shared through the simple pleasure of a chocolate or a thoughtful gift that carries with it the essence of home, evoking cherished memories and a sense of nostalgia in every bite, while also empowering refugees to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
