We were lucky to catch up with Jenny Chicoye recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jenny, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

Buku Vegan was created in 2018 to satisfy any sweet tooth and savory cravings someone might have without having to worry about dairy, eggs or other hidden animal products. Love is always the first ingredient with quality being a close second. We guarantee you’ll be left not only satisfied but also wanting more. Cruelty-free and delectable shouldn’t be a foreign concept, rather, one that creates a delicious union; which is the foundation of this company.

Jenny, 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?

Known most for my glorious head-wraps, I am Haitian-American and Brooklyn born! I am a self-taught, plant-based chef and baker who’s been featured in Miami Vibes Magazine, Edible Orlando Magazine, Ardent Nova and the runner-up for The Greatest Baker Competition. I was also honored to curate seasonal menu items for various vegan cafes and restaurants. I am the mastermind behind Buku Vegan. My journey to mindfulness started almost 9 years ago in November and I’ve been growing and learning ever since.

A close family member had gotten pretty sick with two different dis-eases and decided to go raw vegan in order to aide in curing herself. Witnessing this I feel like I had some decisions to make. So, I locked myself in my room for 3 days and 3 nights and watched documentaries, read articles, informed myself on what people viewed as the pros and cons. Basically, I wanted to gather as much information as humanly possible so I knew I was making the best choice for myself. After learning about the treatment/torment of the animals, the wellbeing of our planet and the governments hidden agenda I went vegan literally overnight- I knew living a plant based lifestyle was the only option for me.

Though I make all types of treats and food, I am also known for my Buku Jars which are delectable cakes in a resealable jar. There is, however, one flavor in particular that people hunt me down for and that’s my famous carrot cake. People buy them in bulk in fear of me selling out which definitely happens more often than not.

Something that sets me apart is my dedication. Being the daughter of an immigrant, who was also an entrepreneur, gives me the drive to go forward and be the best I can be, this passion is in my blood. I wasn’t taught how to do anything business related, nonetheless, how to even bake, so I am proud to say I’ve made it this far but I will always have a hunger for knowledge.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I think something that really helped me is the fact that I only use quality ingredients, always. With that, I believe word of mouth got out fast because my motto is “if I wont eat it, I won’t serve it.” That’s been a huge part of my mission, serving food with integrity.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Something I am truly proud of is the fact that I started my business from the ground up, no training or schooling to get me where I am. It has not been an easy road but I truly think it speaks to how resilient I have become because I am pushing passed any obstacle and not letting it deter me from my biggest goals/dreams. Not to mention, I am self-taught with cooking and baking, I am always trying to incorporate ways to continue to learn and grow.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/bukuvegan
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/bukuvegan
• Other: https://www.happycow.net/reviews/buku-vegan-winter-garden-280330

Image Credits
Eemyaj Visuals Fred Lopez Kelly Ann Salazar Daniil’s Creations