Mona is originally from Sudan, and when she made British Columbia home, she brought her culture with her.
“Growing up, I was surrounded by the rich flavours, colours, and craftsmanship of Sudanese culture,” she says. “Those memories stayed with me and became the foundation of my business today.”
That business is Taste of Africa, and through it Mona shares traditional Sudanese spice blends and handmade jewelry with her community at farmers’ markets across the Lower Mainland.
“My business is not only about selling products,” she says. “It’s about preserving traditions, creating connections, and celebrating cultural diversity.”
The Spices That Started It All
At the heart of Taste of Africa are two traditional Sudanese spice blends: Tawabel and Shata.
“These blends have been passed down through generations and are an important part of family gatherings and celebrations,” Mona says. “For me, these spices represent home, family, and cherished memories. Sharing them allows me to introduce people to the flavours of Sudan and create meaningful cultural connections through food.”
Building Something New
Building a business in a new country is not easy.
“I have faced challenges, including starting over in a new country, building a customer base, balancing family responsibilities, and navigating the costs and demands of running a small business,” Mona says.
But the response she gets from customers keeps her going.
“Every positive conversation, returning customer, and opportunity to participate in community markets reminds me why I started this journey,” she says.
That sense of belonging extends to the farmers’ markets themselves.
“Community means connection, support, and belonging,” she says. “The farmers’ market community has been incredibly welcoming, and it has shown me how food, art, and handmade products can bring people together in meaningful ways.”
Where to Find Taste of Africa
“I look forward to introducing new products, meeting new customers, and participating in more community events and farmers’ markets,” Mona says. “I am especially excited to continue sharing Sudanese culture through food and craftsmanship while building lasting relationships with customers and fellow vendors.”
You can find Mona at the White Rock Farmers’ Market, Downtown Chilliwack Community Market, Haney Farmers’ Market in Maple Ridge, Mission City Farmers’ Market, and coming soon to the Port Coquitlam Farmers’ Market and Pitt Meadows Farmers’ Market.
Browse her full collection at tasteofafricabymona.com.