We were lucky to catch up with Charlette Lopez recently and have shared our conversation below.

Charlette , appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

Jikonikwenu means my kitchen in Swahili. KWENU is a Swahili word that also means “your Home”. I wanted a name that makes customers feel welcomed. I also wanted to represent East African culture.

Charlette , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Charlette Lopez. I am an entrepreneur, humanitarian, and culinary visionary. As the Founder and CEO of CHARLETTE LOPEZ®, a remarkable Kenyan 🇰🇪 Mexican 🇲🇽 American 🇺🇸 Food Company established in 2021, I am dedicated to crafting exceptional and authentic cuisine that embodies the rich flavors of Latin America and Africa. My culinary expertise shines through the delectable offerings of my renowned brand, @jikonikwenu.

I started this business because of my mother and my paternal grandmother. My mother is a Kenyan who used to do training workshops with farmers and teach them how to make organic fruit jams as well as hot sauces. My paternal grandmother is Mexican and taught me how to make hot sauces using Oaxacan ingredients. I decided to create uniquely blended Mexican and Kenyan flavors to distinguish myself in the market. My competitors use additives and sugar, which I do not use.

I want to inspire business owners about brand identity. As a Black business woman owner, mastering my brand and creating a strong identity has been crucial for standing out in the competitive business landscape. My brand has not just been about my business logo or a catchy slogan; it encompasses the essence of my business that showcases communication of my values, vision, and unique offerings to my target audience. I am authentically representing who I am as a brand. I am authentically representing my two cultures; and that is Kenya and Mexico. Being authentic has made me stand out in this competitive food industry

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

As a business owner, it is challenging to get new customers and keeping them. Here are some ways that has allowed me to maintain repeat customers and attract new customers.

1. Social media marketing in platforms such as; Instagram. Facebook and Tiktok.
2. Referrals from my customers on their social medial and word of mouth.
3. Collaboration with other CPG business owners.
4. Attending business events to network and also spread awareness of my business.
5. Supporting and donating 10% of our business proceeds to local Charities in United States and NGOs in Africa.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Money is still a big challenge. I have poured a lot of money into the business and I have never paid myself. Everything that I make goes back into growing the business. Whenever I feel like quitting, I remind myself of how far I have come. I am faithful and confident that I have the resilience and determination to make it in the food industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.charlettelopez.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/jikonikwenu
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jikonikwenu