Dr. Rachel Laryea is a remarkable individual with a double doctorate in Philosophy and Anthropology from Yale University. Currently serving as an Asset Wealth Management Researcher at JPMorgan Chase & Co, she embodies the fusion of academia and entrepreneurship. Driven by her passion for showcasing the diversity of Africa and its diaspora through food, she founded Kelewele NYC in 2018.
Kelewele, a Ghanaian delicacy made from ripe plantains, holds a special place in Dr. Rachel’s heart. Her childhood memories of her mother’s culinary creations inspired her to launch Kelewele as a tribute to her cultural heritage and love for flavorful dishes. What started as a side-hustle alongside her demanding finance career has blossomed into a thriving business.
Using plantains as her canvas, Dr. Rachel crafts a variety of delectable products under the Kelewele brand. From ice cream to cookies, doughnuts, cakes, and more, each creation celebrates the versatility and richness of this humble ingredient. Dr. Rachel’s dedication to quality is evident in her best-selling Kelewele ice cream, a labor of love that took her a year to perfect.
Despite her success, Dr. Rachel faces challenges typical of solo founders. She navigates the complexities of business management, from decision-making to wearing multiple hats daily. One significant hurdle is access to capital, as Kelewele NYC remains self-funded. However, Dr. Rachel remains undeterred, seeing a bright future where African exports, like plantains, play a pivotal role in global markets.
Dr. Rachel Laryea’s journey exemplifies resilience, creativity, and a deep-rooted connection to her heritage. Her innovative approach to blending tradition with modernity through Kelewele NYC not only delights taste buds but also inspires a new wave of culinary exploration. As she continues to expand her culinary empire, Dr. Rachel’s vision and passion shine as brightly as her golden-brown Kelewele creations.