Kiame Foods: Bringing the Authentic Taste of Angola to Canada

This story is part of the Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada Retail Incubator Program, presented by RBC and supported by Meridian.

The program provides hands-on retail experience and business training to help immigrant entrepreneurs launch and grow their ventures in the heart of Ottawa.

As you explore the ByWard Market Vendor Village, you will discover more than premium pantry staples. Behind Kiame Foods is a story of heritage, family, and a passion for sharing the authentic flavours of Angola with communities across Canada.

For founder Sebastião Sala, the inspiration for Kiame Foods came from two important places: his homeland, Angola, and his family.

After moving to Canada, Sebastião found himself searching for the familiar foods he had grown up enjoying. While some products were available, many lacked the quality, presentation, and packaging needed to reflect the rich culinary traditions they represented.

"I saw a gap. Authentic food deserved better," he says.

That realization inspired him to create Kiame Foods, a brand dedicated to delivering authentic African food products that meet high international standards while celebrating their cultural roots.

The name Kiame carries a deeply personal meaning. In the Angolan languages of Kikongo and Kimbundu, Kiame means "it's mine," a phrase that reflects pride, ownership, and connection. It is also the name of Sebastião's only son.

"For me, Kiame represents ownership, pride, legacy, and family."

Every product reflects those values, connecting his family's story with the traditions of Angola.

Sebastião's journey to Canada became the driving force behind his business. Like many newcomers, he experienced the challenge of searching for products that reminded him of home.

"I wanted food that tasted right, looked right, and came in packaging worthy of the international market."

Instead of waiting for someone else to fill that gap, he decided to become the solution.

Building Kiame Foods came with significant challenges. Transforming an idea rooted in Angola into a successful Canadian business required learning an entirely new business environment.

He worked to source authentic products while ensuring they met Canada's food regulations, including quality standards, traceability requirements, and bilingual packaging expectations. At the same time, he had to establish a reliable supply chain, build customer trust, and compete within a growing marketplace.

Despite those challenges, every step has reinforced his commitment to quality and authenticity.

One of Sebastião's proudest moments came when he saw the Kiame name displayed on premium food products available in Canada.

"My greatest achievement is seeing the name Kiame, my son's name and a word that means 'it's mine,' on products sold in Canada."

For him, it represents much more than business success. It symbolizes a journey that began in Angola and continues to grow through hard work, perseverance, and family.

Another meaningful milestone was being featured in the inaugural edition of CENA Magazine, recognizing Kiame Foods and its mission to bring authentic African products to a wider audience.

As a participant in the Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada Retail Incubator Program, Sebastião has continued to strengthen his business while learning from experienced mentors and fellow entrepreneurs.

"Programs like this are vital."

He credits the program with helping immigrant entrepreneurs better understand important aspects of business, including market access, packaging, branding, and international quality standards.

"Karla Briones is an amazing mentor, and the entire IEC team has been very supportive."

He also values the program's multicultural approach, which has introduced him to new ideas, perspectives, and opportunities for growth.

"I've learned so much, and I still do. Programs like this make you want to do more and achieve more."

For other immigrant entrepreneurs beginning their own journeys, Sebastião encourages them to pay attention to the problems they experience in everyday life.

"Look at what is missing in your own life. Your deepest frustration can become your greatest business idea."

He also believes every business should be rooted in purpose.

"Every time I say 'Kiame,' I remember my son, my Angola, and my purpose."

His final message is simple but powerful.

"Never forget where you come from. Your story is your power."

Kiame Foods continues to share the authentic flavours of Angola while building bridges between cultures through food, family, and tradition.

Visit Kiame Foods at the ByWard Market Vendor Village to discover premium African pantry staples and experience the authentic taste of Angola.

Explore Kiame Foods Inc. or stay updated on their latest products and initiatives. Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @kiame_foods_inc to follow their journey as they continue sharing authentic African and Lusophone food products, celebrating cultural heritage, and bringing communities together through quality ingredients.

This story is part of the Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada Retail Incubator Program, presented by RBC and supported by Meridian.