Kemi Tijaniqudus is a pioneering entrepreneur who has significantly influenced the Bay Area’s Afro music and culinary scenes. She began her journey in 2006 as a female promoter in the Bay Area, organizing events with Afrobeats stars like Tuface, Psquare, and co-managing music acts like Nneka during a time when Afrobeats was still gaining recognition. She was instrumental in promoting African music, often personally distributing CDs and flyers to local DJs. 

Kemi’s entrepreneurial spirit blossomed at her brother’s club, Air Lounge, a key venue for nightlife in Oakland. During reggae nights, she introduced jollof rice to the patrons, blending her love for music and Nigerian food. Her passion as an event producer led her to pursue a degree in mass communication and advertising at Cal State East Bay, initially intending to work in artist management. However, her culinary roots steered her toward the food industry. 

Although Jollof Kitchen has never owned a restaurant, her commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and community building has made it more than just a business. it is indeed a cultural experience.

In 2012, Kemi launched Jollof Kitchen, a catering business that has since become a prominent fixture in the Bay Area’s food scene. Known for its authentic Nigerian dishes, the venture has served a wide range of clients, from community events , festivals , schools , catered private events for YouTube/Google, Facebook/Meta and served celebrities under the likes of Tiwa Savage , Davido , Nneka, Burna boy , Wizkid , Rema, Olamide , Fire Boy ,Joe Boy , Ruger, Jonathan Juminga, Young Jonn, Oxlade & much more . 

In 2019, she Started a networking event in Nigeria called Jollof and Vibes, timed perfectly during the excitement of Detty December. After the success of the first event, she brought it to the Bay Area and began hosting it quarterly, where it quickly became a favorite. Although she now decided to host it annually to make space for other projects, Jollof and Vibes is still an event everyone eagerly anticipates each year.

Kemi has won the Jollof Festival both times she competed, earning a reputation for having the best Jollof. Her win drew the attention of KQED food,who reached out to learn more about the festival victories. As she continues to expand her culinary reach, she remains a vital ambassador for Nigerian cuisine, enriching the Bay Area with her legacy of culture, flavor, and community.

In addition to her work with Jollof Kitchen, Kemi is the Bay Area Festival Director for African Restaurant Week, a role that allows her to further her passion for promoting African cuisine and culture. Her leadership in this event underscores her commitment to bringing African food to a wider audience.