Yolélé was founded by Chef Pierre Thaim in 2017 to create economic opportunity for smallhold farming communities; to support biodiverse, regenerative, and resilient food systems; and to share Africa’s ingredients and cuisines with the world. Simply buying more of West Africa’s oldest cereal grain helps to alleviate extreme poverty, but Yolélé goes a step further to truly unlock opportunity and transform communities in the West African Sahel.

They’re connecting smallhold farmers—mainly women—with local and global markets so they can support themselves from agriculture while increasing food sovereignty in the region. Africa’s vibrant flavors, ingredients, and food ways deserve a spotlight and a place on tables around the world. That’s where Yolélé comes in.