Chrispy African Market is one of the leading African grocery stores in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. The business is owned by Mrs. Olayinka Animasaun (née Abayomi), an Ondo State-born entrepreneur who has successfully built a thriving African food business while promoting Nigerian culture abroad.
Beyond entrepreneurship, Mrs. Animasaun is the Executive Director of a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering women and young people, providing food support, and advocating against domestic violence in Canada.
In this exclusive interview with Princess Adeola Shittu, Publisher of Event Diary Lifestyle, Mrs. Animasaun shares her inspiring journey—from surviving domestic violence and relocating to Canada to becoming one of the most respected Nigerian entrepreneurs in the Canadian African food industry.
Tell us briefly about yourself.
Thank you very much. I am Mrs. Olayinka Animasaun (née Abayomi), the CEO of Chrispy African Market, Canada, and I also run a non-governmental organization.
I am from Esuru Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. I attended St. Louis Girls' Secondary School, Akure, before obtaining my OND from Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. I later proceeded to Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, and have also completed several professional courses in both Nigeria and Canada.
Before relocating to Canada, I worked briefly in Nigeria. I served as a Branch Manager in a microfinance bank in Ado-Odo/Ota, Ogun State, while simultaneously running a catering business.
In addition, I founded an NGO focused on women and youth empowerment, as well as advocacy against domestic violence. I thank God for how far He has brought us, although we are still striving for greater achievements.
Tell us about your childhood.
Although I was born in Akoko, I was raised in Akure. Growing up was beautiful. As the first child in a family of five, I enjoyed every stage of my childhood. I attended an all-girls secondary school and spent part of my education in the boarding house.
Coming from a disciplined family meant there were rules and responsibilities, but those values helped shape the woman I have become today. Looking back, I can confidently say my parents prepared me for the future, and I remain grateful for that solid foundation.
What inspired you to relocate from Nigeria to Canada?
I relocated to Canada in 2015. It was one of the most difficult decisions I ever made. I am a survivor of domestic violence, and at a point in my life, I realized I needed to protect myself and secure a better future for my children.
By God's grace, we settled in Canada and started life afresh.
When I first arrived, I worked while operating my food business from home. As demand increased, the business grew significantly, and eventually I resigned from my job to focus entirely on building Chrispy African Market.
Let's talk about Chrispy African Market. How did the business begin?
Before leaving Nigeria, I combined banking with catering. That experience gave me valuable business knowledge and confidence.
When I arrived in Canada, I noticed many African food products available were either expensive or lacked the quality I expected. I believed Africans deserved authentic products with the same taste and quality they enjoyed back home.
Initially, the business operated under the name Christy African Market, but we later rebranded to Chrispy African Market.
Using my catering background and passion for quality African food, I officially launched the brand. Today, after more than eight years, we continue to grow while giving God all the glory.
How challenging was it to establish an African food business in Canada?
First, let me clarify that I am based in the Niagara Falls region, not Toronto. Starting a business in Canada is far from easy. Anyone who says otherwise is not telling the full story.
Unlike Nigeria, where opening a business can sometimes be less regulated, Canada has strict guidelines especially for food businesses. Every product must meet government standards, and obtaining the necessary licences and approvals is compulsory. We followed every required process before opening our doors.
By God's grace, we expanded in December 2022 with a second outlet at our dream location in Niagara Falls.
Tell us about your first two years as a business owner in Canada.
Those first two years were focused on building trust. Our customers quickly recognised our commitment to quality, authenticity, and excellent service.
That trust has remained one of our greatest strengths and is a major reason Chrispy African Market continues to thrive today.
One of our proudest achievements has been producing authentic Nigerian products locally, including our famous Agege bread, which delivers the same taste Nigerians know and love.
How were you able to achieve that success?
I believe everything is possible when you're willing to take calculated risks.
Although Agege bread was available, freshness was often an issue because of transportation.
We decided to establish our own bakery in Niagara Falls so customers could enjoy freshly baked Nigerian bread without long delivery delays.
Today, we also operate a restaurant that seats over 100 guests. It serves authentic African meals and doubles as an event venue. We want every visitor to Niagara Falls to experience a true taste of Africa. The response has been very encouraging.
How do you source your products?
Preparation was very important before launching the business. Most of our products are locally sourced and produced in Nigeria.
I own a registered company in Nigeria with dedicated staff who help source and package quality products for export.
We are committed to maintaining quality because we want every customer to receive genuine value for their money.
After more than eight years in business, what has the journey taught you?
It has not been easy. Many people believe life abroad is effortless, but that is far from reality. In Canada, hard work is essential. If you don't work, you don't earn. Despite the challenges, I remain grateful to God for His grace and favour. My success is a testimony to perseverance, faith, and consistency.
How many people do you employ?
To the glory of God, Chrispy African Market currently employs eight staff members.
How do you balance business, motherhood and your personal life?
Honestly, it is only God who gives strength. Life in Canada is demanding because of the financial responsibilities that come with living here.
Sometimes I sleep less than five hours because there is always work to do. Thankfully, I have wonderful children who support me, alongside dedicated staff who contribute immensely to the business.
Without God's help, balancing family and business would have been impossible.
What are your future plans?
We are working towards establishing Chrispy African Market in Nigeria.
When the time is right, we will officially announce it.
We also organise cooking tutorials for people interested in learning how to prepare authentic Nigerian meals.
Through these classes, we are introducing Nigerian cuisine and African culture to people from different backgrounds.
Do Canadians really want to learn Nigerian cooking?
Absolutely. I currently have more than ten Canadian clients who regularly contact us whenever they want to prepare Nigerian dishes.
Most of our lessons are conducted through video calls, where we guide them through recipes and cooking techniques.
They genuinely appreciate Nigerian food and culture.
I always say that we should speak positively about our country and contribute to its development instead of constantly criticizing it.
Despite the challenges, I remain proud to be Nigerian, and I will continue promoting Nigeria wherever I go. God bless Nigeria.
Do you still have time to socialise?
Yes, I do. As a caterer, I attend many events—sometimes as a guest and other times as a vendor.
Networking and social interaction remain important parts of both my personal and professional life.
How do you relax?
Whenever I have free time, I prioritise getting quality sleep because rest is very important. I also enjoy watching movies, although I find great fulfilment in my work.
Running Chrispy African Market is not just a business—it is something I genuinely love doing.
