From crafting compelling messages to curating delectable flavors, this is the tale of a Mass Communication graduate, Mrs. Racheal Aladi Oke-Olushola, who has traded the pen and the microphone for the spatula.
She shares her journey as the Chief Executive Officer of Ray’s Kitchen Events and Services, revealing how passion guided her from the newsroom to the heart of the kitchen, crafting unique narrative where every dish tells a story. Her aim is to promote African dishes and to add value to life through organic food, drinks and snacks.
Educational background/experience
In 1992, I embarked on my academic journey, starting with the acquisition of my First School Leaving Certificate at Adakole Nursery and Primary School in Kaduna. This laid the foundation for my education, leading me to the Government Girls Secondary School, Barnawa, also in Kaduna. In 2005, I honed my computer skills at Capital Computer Institute before advancing to Kaduna Polytechnic where I obtained both a National Diploma and Higher National Diploma in Mass Communication.
the mutual agreement with my husband to personally raise our children led me to temporarily set aside my career
I completed my mandatory industrial attachments at the New Nigeria Newspaper in Kaduna State during both my National Diploma and Higher National Diploma (HND) levels. Additionally, I gained valuable experience in the electronic media through another industrial training at Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC Radio Station).
Transition from journalism to food/hospitality industry
My passion for the food and hospitality industry traces back to my childhood. Spending time in the kitchen has always been a cherished hobby of mine. I find joy in cooking and experimenting with new recipes, a passion instilled in me by my late mother, Mrs. Christiana Edeoligo, who remains my ultimate role model.
So, the transition to the food and hospitality sector was almost inevitable, given my innate love for cooking. Even if I were practising journalism, I would still pursue my dream in the food and hospitality business. It has always been my aspiration, and I am delighted to be engaged in what I am truly passionate about.
passion has been my driving force for overcoming challenges
What motivated the career shoot?
While there wasn’t a predetermined choice to step away from journalism, marriage became a significant factor in my life. Residing in Lagos and the mutual agreement with my husband to personally raise our children led me to temporarily set aside my career. During this period, I immersed myself in the food and hospitality industry, a field that aligns with my passion. This transition wasn’t a complete departure from my profession; rather, it was a redirection of focus.
Hurdles encountered while starting food business
Embarking on a venture in the food and hospitality industry is undeniably challenging. Despite the hurdles, passion becomes the driving force for overcoming these challenges. To establish a food brand successfully, one must first be a food enthusiast and genuinely love the culinary craft. The demanding hours in the kitchen, the unseen struggles like swollen legs—all become worthwhile when fueled by passion.
The journey involves developing a resilient mindset, knowing that the hurdles are stepping stones toward desired heights. Beyond external challenges, personal dedication and the intrinsic joy derived from the culinary arts provide the endurance needed to thrive in this chosen path. So the passion I have for the industry, and the love I have for food and everything sum up together to the extra energy that helps me scale through the hurdles of this business.
Pivotal moments
Several pivotal moments have marked my journey, but the most significant turning point catapulted me to the zenith of this business. The memorable event in Abuja, where I had the privilege to cater for a distinguished gathering, was an unexpected opportunity that brought immense joy. The trust placed in me to oversee the culinary aspect for such a prestigious event marked a colossal turning point. It affirmed that the sky is merely a stepping stone, and I am confident that with divine assistance, greater heights await me in my path.
Without a Mass Comm foundation, I might have needed to hire a professional, underscoring the value of my academic background in navigating the nuances of the food and hospitality industry
What Mass Communication skills benefit your business?
I’m grateful for my Mass Communication background, as it significantly influences my approach to the food business. From advertising to clients, to persuasion, and emphasizing the importance of health, my education has played a crucial role. In the realm of photography, capturing appealing images for clients and audiences requires skills honed through Mass Communication.
Without this foundation, I might have needed to hire a professional, underscoring the value of my academic background in navigating the nuances of the industry.
Unique selling point that sets your business apart from others in the industry
In the expansive food industry of Lagos, our focus is on delivering quality services and addressing specific challenges for our clients through food. Our motto, “Adding value to life through food,” encapsulates our commitment. Beyond merely selling meals, we prioritize nutrition, ensuring the health and well-being of our clients. We take the initiative to educate our customers on the ideal proteins for their chosen dishes.
Our unique selling point lies in our ability to solve our clients’ culinary challenges, providing top-notch services that add significant value. Our approach extends beyond monetary transactions; we strive to ensure our clients receive exceptional value for their investment.
What are your strategies for building food business brand and customer loyalty?
Indeed, building a brand and a customer based is quite crucial in a place like Lagos where every street is flooded with food vendors, ranging from professionals, and ‘Mama put’ who just have that zeal and passion for food and he/she is all out striving to carve a niche for themselves.
As a novice, you’ll encounter initial challenges given the saturation of the market with countless food vendors. Yet, your commitment, authenticity, and service quality will propel you beyond these obstacles. Creating a brand name and cultivating a customer base become inherent tasks, driven by your seriousness, output, genuineness, and the excellence of your services.
The journey begins with overcoming challenges and establishing your presence, gradually climbing the ladder to gain recognition. Success lies in consistently delivering output that resonates with your audience, fostering trust and reliability.
creating a devoted customer base hinges on the assurance that what customers order aligns seamlessly with what they receive
Ultimately, creating a devoted customer base hinges on the assurance that what customers order aligns seamlessly with what they receive, coupled with a little extra (“jara”) to exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression.
So, I try as much as possible to beat my clients’ imagination, not only to let them know I am after their money but to also render that quality service that will keep them asking for more like Oliver Twist.
What advice would you offer to aspiring enterpreneurs managing family responsibilities alongside their business ambitions, drawing from your own experience and journey?
The economic landscape has changed, and for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women juggling family responsibilities, my advice is clear: Ensure you have a genuine passion for your business. Starting a business is one thing, but driving its success requires the heartfelt passion and foresight you had before its inception.
Without these driving forces, success is unlikely. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so don’t expect instant results. Act on your business plan; don’t let it linger in your thoughts. As a woman navigating family and business, overcome fears, take the plunge, and seek guidance from God, professionals, and coaches. Dive into any business with prayer, adequate resources, and a guiding coach. Passion, capital, and coaching are the keys to making headway. “stay focused.”
As a woman navigating family and business, overcome fears, take the plunge
Role model and future plans?
My late mother, Mrs. Christiana Edo-Oligo, my role model, imparted invaluable lessons from my childhood to adulthood.
Her influence shaped everything I do today. With her passing, I find inspiration in Ify’s Kitchen, particularly admiring her cooking style. Looking ahead, I envision my business expanding significantly in the next five to 10 years, reaching millions.
I aspire to make a positive impact through Corporate Social Responsibility, touching the lives of women, children, the downtrodden, orphans, widows, and others.
