After years of watching YouTube videos, Emirati opens chocolate kiosk at 21
At the Ramadan Park Market in Umm Al Emarat Park, visitors are drawn to the aroma emanating from a mobile kiosk cart where 21-year-old Emirati Fatima Al Mehairi passionately sells homemade chocolates. This marks Fatima's debut in selling chocolates at a public venue, a venture borne out of her childhood fascination with truffles and years of honing her skills by watching YouTube videos.
Fatima's journey into the world of chocolate-making began at the age of 12, fueled by her curiosity and a desire to create something unique. Undeterred by challenges and discouraging remarks, she transformed her love for truffles into a small business, infusing her creations with a personal touch to make them distinct. Her innovative approach and dedication soon earned her recognition among friends and family for her delectable chocolates.
Under the brand name BamBom Sweets, Fatima started her venture in 2018, initially operating from home with a focus on truffles. Over time, she expanded her product line to include brownies, rocky roads, rice krispies, and more. Embracing her entrepreneurial spirit, Fatima invested in branding her products with an appealing logo featuring her childhood image and a catchy tagline, 'my childhood cravings.' She also leveraged social media, particularly Instagram, to promote her offerings and facilitate home delivery services.
Despite facing skepticism and negativity from some quarters, Fatima remained steadfast in her pursuit of her dreams, refusing to be deterred by naysayers. She attributes her success to perseverance and faith in divine timing, emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
Currently pursuing a degree in international relations at Zayed University, Fatima is determined to strike a balance between her academic pursuits and her burgeoning chocolate business. Her long-term vision includes expanding her enterprise by launching a food truck at Al Qana, a waterfront destination in Abu Dhabi, offering an array of treats beyond chocolates.
With an unwavering commitment to quality, Fatima personally oversees the production of her chocolates, with her brother serving as the first quality control checkpoint. Her meticulous attention to detail and passion for her craft underscore her dedication to delivering exceptional products to her customers.
In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, Fatima's story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and self-belief. As she navigates her journey towards her aspirations, Fatima remains determined to carve her path in both the professional world and the realm of artisanal chocolate-making.
By: Sahiba Suri
Comments