Q&A with Cherie
Founder Moringa Boost
Why do you choose to support African Restaurant Week and Black History Month?
- It’s always an honor to be invited to participate in African restaurant week and Black History Month events because it’s a unified experience of cultural explosion. It gives me an opportunity to display my business’s Afro-Caribbean roots. The events provide a space of inclusion and cultural awareness. My business gets exposure to audiences who are interested in learning about culturally diverse foods and beverages.
What country cuisine/culture would you be featuring?
I am featuring the medicinal magic of Moringa- the most nutrient dense herb hailing from the beautiful island of St.Vincent and the Grenadines. The moringa is grown in its lush volcanic soils embedded in natural minerals.
What makes your business unique?
- My business is a Minority Women Business Enterprise focused on health/ wellness holistically improving your life by fueling you with nutrients formulated by a Registered Dietitian. We curate functional tea (something you wouldn’t normally find in your typical store or airport). It’s not just a snack that tastes good, but it really helps improve your overall health; immune system, inflammation, energy, brain, eye, mood, cardiovascular, endocrine, etc. My products are one way to implement healthy changes into your life. We host wellness events “T.E.A (together everyone achieves) parties” empowering local businesses. We aim to foster communities that support healthy food/ beverage choices and accessible physical activity opportunities regardless of one’s socioeconomic status by partnering with local organizations, farmers markets, small businesses, stores, DOE, fitness instructors, and now airports.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a business owner?
- My biggest challenge is exposure to reach large audiences and capital to grow facing the increase in raw materials and production.
How has participating in events like African Restaurant Week impacted your business or the community?
- It helps me reach larger audiences and make connections with other businesses who may have never been able to experience CherVitality. The experience is usually life changing and always impressionable. Once guests sample our teas they inquire about how to get more! We were able to get in person feedback, more app members, and guests for our community events just by having a table on the streets of Flatbush. Last year, my business was able to be recognized by JFK Millenial Partners, Ethiopian Airlines, international travelers, and airport staff.
What are your plans and goals for the future of your business?
- I have a vision to be an international brand. I want to mass produce and be in the airports to reach customers from all over the world.
What message would you like to share with the community about supporting small businesses and celebrating Black History Month?
- Please shop local and help support our dreams. We pour into you, our neighborhood economy, and need you to stay afloat.
