Meet Menal Kidane

We were lucky to catch up with Menal Kidane recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Menal, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Being the only one in the room who looks like me has definitely posed challenges, but it has also taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the importance of authentic self-expression. To be effective and successful in these situations, I’ve learned to leverage a few key strategies:
1. Confidence in My Perspective: I’ve learned that my unique background and experiences are assets, not liabilities. I make sure to bring my full self to the table, offering insights that others may not have considered. This helps create a space where diversity of thought can lead to better solutions.
2. Active Listening and Building Relationships: While it’s important to assert my voice, I’ve also learned the power of listening. By understanding the perspectives of others in the room, I can build rapport and foster meaningful conversations. This helps in navigating differences and finding common ground.
3. Advocating for Inclusivity: I’ve found it crucial to not only perform at a high level but also advocate for inclusive practices. Whether it’s pushing for more diverse representation or making sure that all voices are heard, I actively work to create environments where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background.
4. Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Sometimes, being the only one who looks like me means I have to work harder to prove myself. However, I’ve learned to view these challenges as opportunities for growth, pushing me to develop greater resilience and perseverance.

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

As the chef behind Flavor From Afar restaurant and the owner of Jebena Joy Cafe a traditional Eritrean coffee ceremony business, I’m passionate about bringing the rich flavors of Africa to the table. At Flavor From Afar, I create authentic, vibrant dishes that tell the story of African culinary traditions, while my coffee ceremony business offers a unique and immersive experience, showcasing Ethiopia’s centuries-old coffee rituals.

What excites me most is the opportunity to share cultural experiences with others—whether it’s through a flavorful dish or a cup of freshly brewed coffee made in a traditional jebena pot. Each moment is an invitation to connect, learn, and celebrate community. I believe in creating spaces where people can come together, slow down, and enjoy the warmth of good food and great company. It’s about fostering connection, learning from each other, and building a sense of belonging.

Right now, I’m excited to host coffee ceremony events and collaborate with local artisans to create a space where people can truly connect. My vision is to bring people together in a warm, welcoming environment—whether it’s for a moment of reflection, a family gathering, or a time to connect with neighbors. We’re also planning to introduce a seasonal menu with unique coffee blends and treats to enhance these special moments. I want to create a place where everyone feels comfortable to slow down, enjoy good company, and share in the experience. It’s all about fostering connection and making time for what matters most—togetherness.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are resilience, cultural awareness, and creativity. Resilience has helped me navigate challenges and stay focused on my goals, while cultural awareness has allowed me to connect deeply with my roots and share them through food and coffee. Creativity has been key in innovating and offering fresh experiences to my community.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace failure as part of the process, keep learning, and stay true to what makes you unique. Invest in building relationships and always seek new ways to grow—whether through training, travel, or simply observing others in your field. These qualities and habits will help you thrive long-term.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Yes, I’m definitely open to collaborations! I’m looking to partner with event planners, wedding planners, and other event professionals who are interested in incorporating a traditional Eritrean coffee ceremony into their events. This unique experience adds a memorable cultural touch to weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings, making any occasion feel special and welcoming. I’m excited to bring East African culture into your home or event, offering a chance to create a beautiful, memorable moment for your guests while fostering a sense of connection and warmth.

If you’re interested in collaborating, I’d love to connect! Feel free to reach out to me directly via email at [email protected] or through our website at jebenajoycafe.com. You can also find us on Instagram @jebenajoycafe. Let’s explore how we can work together to create something special for your clients and bring people together in a meaningful way!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jebenajoycafe.com/menu
• Instagram: @jebenajoycafe

Image Credits

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