Meet LaToya Mbayu

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful LaToya Mbayu. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with LaToya below.

LaToya, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

I get my resilience from my mother. She is the epitome of what to strive for as a woman. She single handedly influenced my core foundation with fierce tenancity while being humble and appreciate of how far I’ve come.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m Chef Toya, a culinary storyteller and private chef whose work is deeply rooted in Cameroonian heritage and elevated by global fusion. Through my brands, I craft bold, soulful dishes that spark connection and curiosity. Whether I’m curating intimate dinner parties, teaching Afro-Fusion cooking classes, or designing immersive food experiences, my mission is to celebrate flavor, history, and heart in every bite.

One of the most exciting parts of my journey is Sime’s Pepper [C-Meh] — my handcrafted pepper sauce line inspired by my grandmother’s legacy and the vibrant spice traditions of West Africa. Sime’s Pepper is more than a condiment; it’s a cultural experience. Each jar is packed with heat, heritage, and love, offering a taste of home for those who crave authenticity.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, the three pillars that have shaped my journey most profoundly are authenticity, perseverance, and my belief system. Staying true to myself — in my voice, my culture, and my craft — has allowed me to build a brand that resonates deeply and stands out in a crowded space. Perseverance carried me through the inevitable challenges, reminding me that growth often comes from discomfort. And my belief system has been my compass, grounding me in purpose and reminding me why I started.

For those just beginning their journey, I’d say: lean into who you are, even when it feels risky. Authenticity builds trust and longevity. Cultivate perseverance like a muscle — it’s what will keep you moving when motivation fades. And whatever your belief system may be, anchor yourself in it. It will guide your decisions, fuel your creativity, and help you navigate the highs and lows with clarity and grace.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

The pursuit of the American dream often demands more than ambition — it requires sacrifice, grit, and an unshakable belief in something greater. I was raised to embody all of that. The act of uprooting everything familiar to build a future from scratch — navigating a new world with quiet resilience and fierce determination — left the deepest imprint on me. That kind of strength wasn’t loud, but it was undeniable. It moved mountains without asking for credit.

That sacrifice shaped me. It taught me that success isn’t just about achievement; it’s about honoring the journey, the legacy, and the people who made it possible. Every time I push forward, I carry that strength with me — not just in my work, but in the way I show up for others, for my culture, and for the dreams I continue to build.

Contact Info:

• Website: Cheftoyacuisine.com, simespepper.com
• Instagram: _chef_toya