alumni food businesses
Find and support Dream Cuisines alumni at the Vancouver Farmers Market! You can also order food through their websites or find them in selected stores. For catering requests, please contact us.
Rana Alkari, a skilled artisan specializing in crafting intricate maamoul cookies, invites you to savour the treasures of Syrian culinary heritage. Maamoul cookies have a rich history that spans centuries, dating back to ancient times. Sweet, crumbly and comforting, these cookies are known to represent kindness and hope. Among Rana's cherished maamoul flavors are pistachio, date, and pecans, each inviting you on a delightful journey through the flavours of Syria.
“Many of my friends tell me that I have inspired them and see me as a role model. Having a positive impact in the community makes me feel good. My community is growing and I feel more connected with the community. I am sharing what I am learning and people ask me how I do it. That makes me feel proud.” - Rana
Aborrajadas, papas rellenas, empanadas, and beyond—these are the very essence of Colombian street food dreams! Colombian Antojitos, crafted by the talented Viviana Rojas, has won over many with her mouth-watering snacks that keep customers coming back for more. Viviana's dedication to sharing the flavours and traditions of Colombian street food through her cooking and baking has been truly inspiring and heartwarming.
“The program made me more visible in the community. Forever grateful with Flavours of Hope for helping me connect with the community in different ways.” - Viviana
Experience the exquisite fusion of traditional Indian sweet and savoury snacks and desserts, such as pistachio saffron cake, chutney cheese puffs, masala veggie brioche and more with Elaichi Patisserie. Meticulously crafted by talented baker Vinaya Waghmode, the traditional fusion treats are not only unique but also evoke a profound nostalgia for her Indian roots and cherished childhood memories. Indulge in a world of new flavours with Vinaya's baking and feel the vibrant streets of India, where culture and flavour come alive!
“I have a very good relationship with the women of the program. I am surprised at how helpful each of them have been for me. We have a fluent communication and support each other in our businesses.” - Vinaya
Molina Family, Sabor a Yucatán
Indulge in the warmth of Mexican comfort food at Sabor a Yucatán, founded by the Molina family. Their commitment to crafting an experience that transports you to the cozy ambiance of a Yucatecan home-cooked meal has earned them a special place in the hearts of many. Featuring two beloved dishes, the comforting frijoles and the iconic cochinita pibil, these cherished recipes have been lovingly passed down through generations in the family, preserving the essence of their rich Yucatecan heritage from Mexico.
“The program has greatly impacted my life by helping me grow and evolve as a person and entrepreneur. It has a positive impact on me, my life, and my family.” - Laura
Rehab Elsayed, Egyptian Bites
Egyptian Bites was born out of Rehab Elsayed's heartfelt longing for the authentic flavours of Egypt. Inspired by the traditional foods of her homeland, Rehab has become a master in the craft of making feteer, a flaky pastry delicacy deeply woven into Egyptian culinary history. Her delectable feteers, whether generously filled with savoury vegetables and meat or adorned with honey, molasses, or cheese, have left a lasting impression on many.
“What I learned here changed my life. I attended a lot of programs during the last 4 years and I couldn't find the support I needed until I found the Dream Cuisines program. I feel lucky to join this program.” - Rehab
Vijaya Bhat, Super Awesome Eats
Vijaya Bhat, a passionate baker from India, turned her dream of Super Awesome Eats, a vegan sourdough baking venture, into reality within two and a half years. Inspired by her mother's culinary legacy, she envisions a future cafe offering nostalgic treats like Mangalore buns, while her signature sourdough cinnamon buns showcase South Asian flavors. Proud member of the Dream Cuisines alumni, Vijaya celebrates strong women in the culinary world.
“I would have never proceeded with my business had I not had support of the program. I see myself now building a successful business and being able to support myself with it in the future.” - Vijaya
Rose Minachi and her daughter Ariana came to Canada from Iran two years ago. A talented and dedicated baker, Rose is proud of her roots and excited to share her Persian desserts with a wider audience. Rose Royal Persian Bakery will represent Rose’s meticulous craft and passion for Persian treats, offering such delights as traditional chickpea cookies and Malake Badam, an almond tart with rosewater, cardamom, and saffron.
“I want to support other newcomer women by sharing my stories and experiences with them. One day, I dream of having a Persian cafe so I can support my daughter with our business and give people good jobs.” - Rose
Through Mis Cazuelas Mexican Food, Angeles serves up delicious, zesty, nourishing dishes like her signature green pozole—traditional recipes, made with familial history, fresh ingredients, care, and love. Angeles is a longtime Flavours of Hope community member, her delicious Mexican food having graced many pop-up dinners and cooking classes.
“Instead of trying to become someone else to be able to fit in a new place, I decided to plant my roots into new soil and share my fruits with pride. I hope that my food brings you the same warmth and sustenance that it brings me and my family, and that it inspires you to try new things.” - Angeles
Huda moved to Canada almost four years ago from Egypt with her husband, daughter, and son. She serves up flavourful fare such as koshery, Egypt’s national dish, and hawashi, a popular Egyptian street food through Super Dishes Egyptian Halal Cuisine. With warming Middle-Eastern spices, tasty herbs, and vegan options, her cooking has something for everyone.
“I cook Egyptian dishes like my mom did, filled with love and bursting with flavours. I’m looking forward to having you try my dishes: all high quality, and made fresh and by hand.” - Huda
Angelica Davalos Ramirez, Tinkerbake
Angelica comes from Mexico, and is a proud mama, sweets enthusiast, and artisan dessert-maker who makes custom cookies, cupcakes, cake pops and donuts. Through Tinkerbake, Angelica shares her sweet-tooth satisfying treats, meticulously detailed icing design, and Mexican flavours.
“Baking has given me the opportunity to grow, and to share a part of my heart through each creation. I am going to embrace it with all my might, because today more than ever, I believe in myself and every woman who fights every moment for her family and her dreams.” - Angelica