Sandra Agora
Sandy's Africian Food Hub
My story is one of resilience, passion, and transformation — and Go Succeed has played a powerful role in helping my business thrive.
Originally from Nigeria, I earned a B.Sc. in Sociology before moving to Derry-Londonderry, where I built a career in health and social care. After nearly a decade as a Community Support Worker and later a Senior Nursing Assistant with the NHS, the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic reignited my lifelong love for cooking.
With encouragement from my family, I launched Sandy’s African Food Hub (SAFH) in May 2023, the first African restaurant in Derry-Londonderry. More than a place to eat, SAFH became a cultural hub where people connect through authentic African cuisine.
Like many migrant entrepreneurs, I faced barriers, from overcoming bias to building trust in a new industry. That’s where Go Succeed made a real impact. Through its financial support and expert advice, I gained confidence, refined my strategy, and connected with networks that helped my business grow.
The results speak for themselves. SAFH has earned local and regional recognition, including the MIRANI Ethnic Minority Business Award in Hospitality (2024) and being named Highly Commended Businessperson of the Year by the Derry Journal.
Today, my restaurant continues to celebrate culture and community, employing a diverse team, engaging in local initiatives, and sharing my heritage across Northern Ireland. With Go Succeed’s guidance and my own determination, I’ve turned my passion into a thriving business and I’m excited to expand SANDYS AFH across the UK and Ireland.
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