Margaret Nyamumbo
Margaret Nyamumbo, a 36-year-old entrepreneur from New York City, made a bold move that many might consider risky: she left her high-paying job on Wall Street to start a coffee business. Today, her company, Kahawa 1893, generates over $3 million annually, reflecting her journey from finance to coffee entrepreneurship.
The Birth of Kahawa 1893
Margaret’s journey to starting Kahawa 1893 began with her love for coffee, which was fueled by her demanding career on Wall Street. As a Black woman in the finance industry, she faced unique challenges and was often one of the few people of color in her field. Coffee became her companion in navigating the fast-paced world of Wall Street. “I survived on coffee,” she recalls, noting how essential it became to her daily routine.
The name “Kahawa” means coffee in Swahili, a nod to Margaret’s Kenyan roots. The number “1893” marks the year coffee was first commercially grown in Kenya. This connection to her heritage was a significant inspiration for Margaret. Notably, who wanted to create a brand that not only stood out but also gave back to the community.
A Commitment to Empowerment: Margaret Nyamumbo
Kahawa 1893 is not just a coffee company; it’s a mission-driven business that sources coffee from women farmers in Africa. Margaret grew up in Kisii, a small town in Western Kenya, where she saw firsthand the immense labor that women put into coffee farming. She wanted to create a brand that would empower these women by ensuring they received fair compensation for their hard work. The company’s coffee bags even have a QR code that allows customers to tip the farmers directly. Thus, adding an innovative touch to their empowerment model.
Overcoming Challenges and Pushing Boundaries
Margaret’s decision to leave Wall Street was not without its challenges. Her parents were initially unhappy with her choice to abandon a stable and prestigious career for the uncertainty of the coffee business. Coffee farming, after all, was not considered a lucrative career in Kenya. Margaret, however, was driven by her passion and the desire to create a brand that made a difference.
The initial phase of the business was tough. Margaret Nyamumbo was working around the clock, balancing her demanding job in finance with her budding coffee venture. She would spend weekends roasting coffee, conducting tastings, and handling all aspects of her new business. “I was doing more work than when I was in banking, but it didn’t feel the same because I loved what I was doing,” she explains.
A Strategic Pivot During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic brought a new set of challenges. Business slowed down dramatically, and Margaret found herself in a financial crunch, accruing $50,000 in credit card debt. Just as she was about to take on a part-time job to sustain her business, a lifeline arrived. Trader Joe’s expressed interest in her coffee, offering to carry Kahawa 1893 in their stores. This was a turning point for Margaret and her company.
Trader Joe’s wasn’t just any retailer; they would make Kahawa 1893 the first Black and woman-owned coffee brand on their shelves. This milestone was not only significant for the company but also for representation in the coffee industry. The partnership opened doors, and soon other retailers like Target and Sprouts were reaching out.
Margaret Nyamumbo Scaling the Business
The demand from major retailers meant that Margaret had to scale her operations quickly. From sourcing more coffee to managing supply chain issues during the pandemic. Hence, the company had to adapt to a rapidly changing environment. “It was a unique time to be doing something that big,” she reflects. Despite the challenges, Kahawa 1893 thrived, expanding its distribution and increasing its impact on the ground in Kenya.
Margaret’s business model includes three major channels: direct sales through their website, partnerships with online platforms like Amazon, and distribution through grocery stores and food service sectors like cafes and offices. The company also focuses on providing a premium product, pricing their 12 oz bags of coffee between $16 and $20. They consider several factors in their pricing strategy, including the cost of green coffee beans, roasting, packaging, and transit, ensuring a fair profit margin while maintaining competitive pricing.
A Bright Future Ahead
Looking ahead, Kahawa 1893 aims to continue growing its distribution and expanding its impact. For Margaret Nyamumbo, the more coffee they distribute, the more farmers they can support, which aligns with her vision of making a meaningful difference in the lives of African women farmers.
Margaret’s journey from Wall Street to building a successful coffee brand is a testament to her resilience, passion, and dedication to social impact. She turned a personal love for coffee into a thriving business that not only brings in millions but also changes lives. “It is a dream job,” she says. “I wouldn’t have predicted it, but it’s something I love doing. I don’t know what else I would be doing if I wasn’t doing this.”
In Sum
Margaret Nyamumbo’s story is an inspiring example of how following one’s passion can lead to not just personal fulfillment, but also impactful entrepreneurship. From Wall Street to coffee farming, her journey underscores the importance of perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to making a difference. Kahawa 1893 continues to grow, proving that a business built on passion and purpose can thrive even in the face of adversity.
