Ekoase Nwadiani is committed to creating a sense of home through his vibrant business ventures, Hibisberry and VanSuya. When he arrived in Canada in 2017, he didn’t even know how to cook. Today, he owns and operates VanSuya, an authentic Nigerian restaurant where he proudly serves Hibisberry, a refreshing drink deeply rooted in his Nigerian heritage.
An Unlikely Beginning
Upon arriving in Canada, Nwadiani faced significant challenges as a newcomer. Initially unable to cook, he quickly realised he missed the comforting flavours of home. His journey began out of necessity but rapidly transformed into passion. Determined to fill this culinary void, he turned to Nigerian street food, an essential part of his cultural identity and began learning the art of cooking during the pandemic.
Quarantined at home, Nwadiani had ample time to experiment in the kitchen. What started as a necessity soon blossomed into a passion. He meticulously developed recipes, learning traditional Nigerian dishes and mastering them step by step. Through this journey, he uncovered his deeper purpose: sharing Nigerian culture and cuisine with others.
Building a Community
Recognising the lack of authentic Nigerian experiences in Western Canada, Nwadiani became determined to fill this void. He imagined not just a restaurant but a gathering place, a home away from home where Nigerians and other immigrants could reconnect with their culture through familiar tastes and communal experiences.
In 2020, during the pandemic, Nwadiani seized his opportunity. After months of practising, refining recipes, and connecting with suppliers, he opened VanSuya. The restaurant quickly became popular among locals and immigrants alike, offering delicious Nigerian street food that brought comfort and nostalgia.
Introducing Hibisberry
At the heart of VanSuya is Hibisberry, a flavorful, vibrant drink inspired by the Nigerian beverage, Zobo. Growing up in Nigeria, Nwadiani remembers Zobo as a staple of daily life, a consistent companion to meals and family gatherings. Zobo is traditionally a hibiscus-based drink made with various fruits, creating unique family recipes.
For Nwadiani, preserving the authenticity of Zobo was essential. Each bottle of Hibisberry captures the essence of his childhood, carefully blending traditional Nigerian flavours with his personal touch. Ingredients such as pineapples and local spices complement the hibiscus base, offering both familiarity and a new experience to his customers.
“We want to keep the authenticity and remind people of home,”
Nwadiani emphasises. Hibisberry has quickly become more than just a beverage; it symbolises connection, community, and cultural pride.
Entrepreneurship with Purpose
Over the past seven years, Nwadiani has established himself as a prominent entrepreneur in Vancouver’s diverse food scene. His businesses are driven by more than profit; they embody a mission to foster community, celebrate West African culture, and support fellow immigrants in feeling at home abroad.
VanSuya, along with Hibisberry, represents the entrepreneurial spirit of West Africa thriving in Western Canada. At the core of these ventures is Ekoase Nwadiani, whose journey from kitchen novice to successful entrepreneur inspires those around him to embrace their roots and find comfort in shared experiences. Through food and drink, Nwadiani continues to create authentic experiences, bridging cultures and connecting communities.
