We recently connected with LaToya Mbayu and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, LaToya thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

The story of ‘SIME’ [C-MEH] begins with a young girl from Mamfe, Cameroon, who dared to dream big. With only an elementary school education, she became a self-taught entrepreneur, blending her natural business acumen with her extraordinary cookery skills to provide for her growing family.

That remarkable woman is my grandmother, whose resilience and determination continue to inspire us to think bigger and embrace the hustle. My love for cooking is deeply rooted in her story, as her passion and ingenuity have been passed down through generations. Through cooking, I aim to honor her legacy while creating one of my own, ensuring that the values and traditions she instilled in us will flourish and endure for future generations.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is LaToya Mbayu, and I’m the heart and hands behind Sime’s Pepper. My journey began with a deep-rooted love for cooking, inspired by my grandmother’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Growing up, I watched her, my mother and aunties blend their resourcefulness and creativity in the kitchen and these experiences planted the seeds of ambition and innovation in me, shaping the foundation of what ‘SIME’ represents today.

I ventured into the food industry to create something that not only reflects my heritage but also serves a purpose. I provide culinary experiences and carefully curate the three heat levels of pepper sauce by hand with an unwavering commitment to quality, authenticity, and a personal touch. Every product or service we offer is imbued with the essence of family, tradition, and love for culinary artistry.

One of the unique things about Sime’s Pepper Sauce is the unique blend of spices. Another unique aspect of Sime’s Pepper Sauce is its commitment to honoring traditional Cameroonian flavors while introducing a modern twist. This fusion of heritage and innovation creates a versatile sauce that not only tells a story but also enhances a wide variety of dishes, making it a staple for both adventurous food lovers and those seeking a taste of authentic culture.

What I’m most proud of is the ability to connect with people through food—a universal language that transcends borders and generations. Watching my creations bring joy and spark conversations is a deeply rewarding experience. My mission extends beyond selling products; it’s about building a legacy that honors my grandmother’s story and empowers future generations to dream bigger.

To anyone discovering us for the first time, I’d love for you to know that at SIME, we value community, sustainability, inclusivity, and everything we do is guided by a passion for the love of giving.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

Redefining “success” beyond climbing traditional corporate ladders, embracing the power of creating community-centered wealth and generational impact instead. These are things I continue to unlearn while learning.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My story is one of perseverance, shaped by a journey across continents and through challenges that could have defined me differently. Born in East Orange, New Jersey, my mother and I relocated to Cameroon. Growing up there, I faced numerous unfortunate circumstances—some days marked by scarcity, others by the weight of uncertainty. Yet, those experiences became the fire that forged my determination.

In Cameroon, I learned the power of adaptability and resourcefulness. Every challenge was met with an inner resolve to create something meaningful out of adversity. From a young age, I knew that my path would not be easy, but I held onto the belief that resilience could pave the way to success.

Today, as an accomplished woman, I carry the lessons of both my roots and my journey. The struggles of my upbringing taught me to never take opportunities for granted and to strive relentlessly toward my goals. My life’s story is not just a testament to overcoming hardship but also a celebration of the strength and potential we all have to rise above circumstances and define our own futures.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected]
• Instagram: simes.pepper , _chef_toya

Image Credits

Image of products – credit goes to Lionel Mbayu

Product Logo – credit goes to Chansi Mbayu