Farrah Moussallati Sibai, Founder
AFIA'S STORY
One refugee's recipes became a grocery shelf staple
Afia Founder Farrah Moussallati Sibai focuses her Middle Eastern food company on supporting refugees, a priority that grew out of her family's own challenging journey. Her mother-in-law spent two years as a refugee of the Syrian civil war before the United States issued her a visa to join the family in Austin. She brought with her the family recipe book and what started out as a farmers' market booth was quickly selected for the exclusive Chobani Incubator program.
The 2018 edition of the prestigious H-E-B Quest for Texas Best contest also honored the company, leading to the family's line of frozen falafel and kibbeh appearing on grocery shelves across Texas. Afia continues to support the family's heritage by employing refugees as part of its rapid expansion that has come with nationwide distribution of its plant-based, gluten-free falafel.
Unorthodox ventures' impact
Going from food truck to grocery freezer aisles nationwide is no easy feat. Our marketing strategies helped Afia land space in thousands of stores. Plus, our production expertise has the company manufacturing falafel faster than ever to meet growing demand.
Executed
Marketing
strategy and development
Saved
$50,000
and prevented significant facility delay
"Unorthodox Ventures brings such expertise in building brands and has really helped us understand how we stand out among so many food companies. They're so supportive of our efforts to develop more healthy alternatives for families that crave the taste and nutrition of home-cooked food but simply lack the time."
— Farrah Moussallati Sibai, Founder
Afia in the Media
Austin American-Statesman – Austin Chamber Unveils Greater Austin Business Award Winners
Austin Business Journal – Frozen Food Maker Afia Scores Whole Foods Distribution
Austin Business Journal – Frozen Food Maker Afia Using Fresh Millions on New Factory, Product Roadmap
Forbes – Why This Female Founder Is Building an Extraordinary Food Startup to Help Refugees
Food & Wine – Giving Broadly Is Our New Go-to for Holiday Gifting
NOSH – Afia Foods Secures Series A Funding to Expand the Mediterranean Food Category
Brand Recognition
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