Entrepreneur Looks Back, Ahead

Since opening Mola Foods in 2016, businesswomen and entrepreneur LaFortune Jeannette Djabea, a native of Cameroon, said she goes beyond the financial bottom line when measuring success. “I am talking about how far we have come in our business and as a brand,” she said. “From starting at farmers’ markets and opening a mini storefront on Amherst St. in Nashua to a larger storefront in Nashua and adding more food products, we have seen tremendous success.”

In addition to an online store that sells spices, sauces and seasonings that feature world flavors, drinks and healthy meal plans, Mola Foods offers takeout and dine-in service. Many of Mola Foods’s products are also available at area retail outlets.

Even with this success, Djabea said she still faces challenges, noting she is “an African doing business in New Hampshire.” “It is challenging in that some people do not understand African food so they have a hard time grasping it and our culture,” she said. “That’s why I started with spices, marinades and sauces, because you can cook your food the way you want and add my products for flavor.”

Other challenges, she said, stem from her gender. “I’m a woman, so it can be more complicated to get things done in the food business without resistance,” said Djabea. She has found a home, however, in New Hampshire. “I love New Hampshire and appreciate all those who have supported me along the way,” said Djabea, who cited her upcoming Taste of Africa event as one way people can learn more about African cuisine and culture. 

Featuring meat and vegan dishes, wine from Averill House Vineyard, and live music by Rabihah Ruby Shabazz, Taste of Africa is Friday, April 22, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at Mola Foods. Tickets for the event are $40 per person. “This is a chance to open your palate to new cuisine and flavors,” she said. “It’s an event where an adventurous eater can dive into African flavors and food.”

To purchase Taste of Africa tickets click here.