Today we’d like to introduce you to Fatima Jalloh.
Fatima, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in Sierra Leone (West Africa) but moved to Guinea Conakry, when I was ten years old, due to the 12-year civil war that we had in Sierra Leone. The war was very intense, that killed over 50,000 people including my auntie MUSU, who was shot dead by rebels. Much of my family had been living in Texas during this time, so in 2003 at age 19, I moved to begin a new life. Growing up in Africa, taught me to be self-sufficient and disciplined. For example, as a child, I learned how to sell products such as cold water in little plastic bags. I would also sell paper wraps to the market then bring the money home so we can go to the market to buy groceries for us to eat. When I came to the states, I couldn’t believe how much opportunity there was, it felt like endless possibilities. You do not even have to go miles to fetch a pail of water just so you will be able to cook, drink, wash dishes, shower, etc. In America, we have water (different kinds of water: flavors water) a dishwashing machine and a washer/dryer machine that gives us easy access to live life. I am very grateful and thankful for all that America has to offer. And to be honest, it feels like many Americans take that for granted. One of my favorite things since a child was to cook and prepare healthy foods. The Idea for Zioso donuts came when My boyfriend and I were talking about how it is difficult to find good gluten-free food options here in Texas. He is from the west coast where it’s more available. Our shared love of donuts combined with healthy eating lead to Zioso (Gluten-Free) Donuts. One of my goals is to bring awareness to Africa. I have a cousin in Sierra Leone that has lived many years with stomach issues. I informed her that by cutting gluten and dairy may help, and she has since felt much better.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Probably the biggest challenge with a specific product like gluten- donuts is finding the target market. There is also the perception that gluten-free food tastes bad, but we have found people are pleasantly surprised after trying a Zioso donut.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Zioso Donuts – what should we know?
To put it simply, we make gluten-free donut holes. The donuts are made from scratch, deep-fried in vegetable oil, and served fresh to the customer. We are known as having fresh, delicious gluten-free donuts. There are a couple of bakeries around DFW that sell gluten-free donuts, but we are the only ones that prepare and serve them fresh right before your eyes.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Zachary Hollin is a co-founder. He is a little shy and prefers to remain out of sight. I would also like to recognize Step Beyond Celiac, a national organization raising awareness for people with Celiac Disease. We sponsored a 5k run with them a few weeks ago and the person that heads it up is Shanna Bird and she is incredible! Her and the organization have been a terrific supporter.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ziosodonuts.com
- Email: ziosodonuts@gmail.com
- Instagram: @ziosodonuts
- Facebook: facebook.com/ziosodonuts
- Twitter: @ziosodonuts
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