Without a stove or refrigerator in their new apartment, the husband-wife duo sought out spaces that were inviting, familiar, and brimming with the food they loved or would grow to love. Immersing themselves in their new community, the co-founders explored ways to support local Black businesses and champion the vibrant, cultural voices of their neighborhood, eventually planting the seed for EatOkra.
At the core of EatOkra is the okra plant, which honors the heritage and history of the African Diaspora. Okra was a plant first brought over from West Africa during the slave trade. Today, it’s a staple in dishes across the African Diaspora, traditionally used as a binding agent in Black comfort foods.
Through these five pillars, EatOkra vows to honor culinary heritage and history for the African diaspora; cultivate a community rooted in a shared love for Black food and businesses; uplift Black businesses owners and future trailblazers; celebrate food as a centerpiece of Black joy; and provide comfort to Black communities nationwide.
EatOkra‘s purpose is to create digital spaces that inspire the larger community and Black business owners, enabling them to spread their wings and embrace their visions for tomorrow.
EatOkra’s mission is to support a vibrant community of consumers and business owners that honors and preserves the culinary heritage and history of the African diaspora. We create a space for all the voices in that community to come together and thrive. We empower consumers to claim their power as conscious buyers and discover a rich food culture while helping Black owners gain brand awareness and grow their businesses.
