Black Women in Food started as an initiative of Dine Diaspora, founded by Maame Boakye and Nina Oduro. In their work to connect people and brands to African diaspora food culture, they recognized the need for intentional efforts to address the lack of opportunities for Black women to advance in their food-focused careers. They created programs to support Black women across the global food system, on a quest to ensure that the future of food is diverse and equitable.
Mission: Black Women in Food identifies, amplifies, and supports Black women in the food and beverage industry to advance their work and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable food system.
About Black Women in Food
I’m Maame
“We provide a space for Black women to form cross-sectoral linkages across the food industry, from media to culinary, agriculture, and venture capital”
Maame Boakye, President and Co-founder of Dine Diaspora, leads the Black Women in Food initiative. Her multicultural upbringing across Ghana, London, and the U.S. fuels her commitment to uniting the African Diaspora and empowering industry professionals. In her role, she shapes business strategy, focusing on initiatives that amplify diverse voices and promote equity in the food system.
With over 14 years of experience, Maame specializes in crafting strategies that connect industry leaders with their audiences, enhancing brand awareness and fostering valuable partnerships. Her work spans North America, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, advocating for policies supporting women, climate action, and entrepreneurship within international institutions and brands. Additionally, she serves as a principal at a boutique consulting firm, offering services to government, civil society, and private industry clients.
Educationally, Maame holds a Master's in Development Studies from the University of London, SOAS, and a BA in International Relations and English from the College of William and Mary.
I’m Nina
“We need long-term solutions that address the challenges that Black women in food experience, enabling them to reach their full potential.”
Nina Oduro, CEO and Co-founder of Dine Diaspora, is dedicated to establishing a more equitable food system centered on the African diaspora. With a Ghanaian heritage and a global perspective from her upbringing in the United States and extensive international travel, Nina drives strategy and creative direction through her diverse culinary and cultural experiences. She utilizes her expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion, leadership development, network building, and community development to connect people and brands through food.
With over 14 years of experience, Nina has implemented inclusive marketing, research, learning, and innovation initiatives on three continents for organizations including Facebook, Microsoft, IREX, and the International Organization of Migration. She has been honored for her work as a 2020 Changemaker by Washington City Paper and the Future of Ghana's 30 under 30.
Nina holds a Master's in African-American Studies from Columbia University, a Bachelor's in Political and Social Thought from the University of Virginia, and an eCornell certificate in Diversity and Inclusion.