Our new ebook, How we made it in Africa II: Actual tales of entrepreneurs turning alternative into revenue, is out there right here. The ebook was lately shortlisted for the Enterprise Council for Africa (BCA) African Enterprise Ebook of the 12 months Awards 2026.
Interview with Eka Obaigbena
FOUNDER, TOASTIES
Lives in: Lagos, Nigeria
Eka Obaigbena observed a niche in Nigeria’s restaurant marketplace for fast-casual chains – corresponding to Chipotle, Shake Shack, and Pret a Manger – she had grown accustomed to whereas dwelling overseas. To fill it, she launched Toasties, which affords sandwiches, salads and different objects that mix native substances with worldwide flavour profiles. How we made it in Africa editor-in-chief Jaco Maritz spoke to her about leaving Michelin-starred kitchens abroad to construct the enterprise in Lagos.
Subjects mentioned through the interview embrace:
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The variations between working a restaurant in Nigeria and the West
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Entering into the highlight as an introverted founder
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Navigating loneliness within the early days
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How Lagos’ eating tradition has developed
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What she would do otherwise if beginning the enterprise once more
