ESSIE BARTELS

FOUNDER and CEO of ESSIESPICE

July 2020

Meet Essie Bartels. She’s the founder and CEO of EssieSpice, which makes vegan small-batch cooking sauces and spice blends from Africa that pack in a world of YUM. Her traditional West African blends mix influences from Asia, the Caribbean, South America and Europe to create a seamless fusion of complementary flavors. EssieSpice has a cult following— and for good reason— one bite of her best-selling (and super versatile) Mango Chili Medley and you’ll be taken on a journey. From her native Ghana to her career at a multinational corporation to successful small-business owner, Essie’s seen the world. And you know what? She's got that special sauce. Let’s catch up with her, shall we?

Follow EssieSpice @essiespice
Follow Essie 
@essieizspicy

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Who are you?


A creator. A child who never stopped believing.

What’s on your mind?

Why the people who killed Breonna Taylor are still walking free.

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Where are you right now?


In Englewood, NJ but I’d rather be with my niece in Accra.

When did you start?

A week before my birthday in November of 2013.

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Why do you do what you do?


To UNDO boring, and make African food famous.

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Wise words:


There is no traffic in the air. Rise above and stay in your lane.

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