Beyonce Knowles-Carter, an acclaimed American singer and businesswoman, has generously contributed £8,000 to a Nigerian restaurant situated in North London that was on the brink of closure due to escalating energy expenses.
The restaurant, known as Chuku’s, proudly claims to be the world’s first Nigerian tapas eatery and is skillfully operated by siblings Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederik.
Emeka and Ifeyinwa were among the fortunate ten recipients of a grant from Beyonce’s Renaissance World Tour, which is facilitated by BeyGOOD, the philanthropic foundation established by the talented artist behind the hit song “Halo.”
As part of the initiative, the foundation pledged to donate a portion of $1 million (£806,000) to support ten businesses located in various cities worldwide, and fortunately for the Nigerian entrepreneurs, they secured a spot within the coveted top ten selection.
Beyoncé’s BeyGood Foundation introduced the Black Parade Small Business Impact Luncheon, aimed at commemorating individuals, communities, and small enterprises affected by global economic disparities. As part of her commitment, Beyoncé pledged £806,400 (N700m) to assist these companies.
The luncheon took place at the esteemed Four Seasons in Tower Hill, attracting over 100 entrepreneurs who had the opportunity to compete for £806,000 worth of prizes.
The foundation was established shortly before the onset of the Covid pandemic in 2020, and the restaurant owners expressed how their establishment had been significantly impacted by successive lockdowns and the prevailing affordability crisis.
Emeka and Ifeyinwa, fortunately, received an additional boost from Beyoncé’s foundation when they were granted a financial award at the Black Parade Small Business Impact Luncheon.
This esteemed event, organized by BeyGOOD, was specifically designed to honor individuals, communities, and small businesses affected by global economic disparities.
Chuku co-founder Emeka said:
“This grant couldn’t be more welcome. Chuku’s, like other restaurants that don’t have a financial reserve, has been battered by lockdowns and the cost of living crisis.
Every day, we’re fighting to stay open to make it to our fourth birthday.’’
‘’This money will make that fight a little easier and allow us to continue celebrating Nigerian culture on Tottenham’s High Road for the time being.”
While his sister Ifeyinwa added:
“I still can’t quite believe that Beyoncé has backed our restaurant – it feels a bit surreal”
