Olajumoke Elkanah, affectionately known as Ola, has a profound passion for food, and she doesn't shy away from expressing it. In her household, African cuisine isn't merely a culinary choice; it's a vital link to her heritage. For Ola, the communal aspect of food, where families and cultures converge, holds special significance.

The journey took an unexpected turn when Ola and her family relocated to Oregon in March 2008. The challenge arose when she couldn't find the beloved ingredients for her favorite dishes. Having to drive an hour north to procure essentials, Ola's husband mentioned the absence of an African store in their new location.

Undeterred, Ola took matters into her own hands. She began transporting fresh tomatoes and red bell peppers from Atlanta, their previous home, carefully frozen in her luggage. The amusement ensued when her bag, bearing these precious culinary cargo, arrived at Portland airport with a note declaring that her bag was checked by airport officials. The memory still brings a smile to Ola's face.

This experience sparked a realization. She realized that there was a significant need for a hub for the African community in Salem, Oregon, to access the flavors of their heritage. Ola recognized the unique power of food to bring people together and saw an opportunity to create a place that could serve this purpose.