Yusupha Bojang opened Dizayus African Market in Februay.
The Market is at 35 SW Everett Mall Way.
An Army veteran who served six years including a tour in Iraq, Yusupha Bojang recently opened Dizayus African Market at 35 SW Everett Mall Way.
Yusupha is originally from Gambia and came to this area in 2010. While he had never been a store owner before, when we stopped in this week he told us, “My Dad sold when I was young, so I guess it’s in my DNA.”
“I noticed there weren’t many stores in the area to serve the needs of the growing community who have come here from Africa and saw Everett as a great market,” said Mr. Bojang. “We have things that you can’t find on the shelf at those big grocery stores, and we work to have a diverse selection from all regions across Africa and not focus on one particular country.”
The aisles are set up with goods from various regions and customers can find food, spices and favorites from Uganda, Senegal, Nigeria, Gambia, Kenya and Sierra Leon among others.
It’s a family business with a focus on community. Yusupha’s sister and friends help with running the business. He also has plans to grow beyond being a grocery store and add a restaurant, a sewing center and tailor shop where people here from Africa can create clothing that reflects their heritage and culture.
“The community is growing and there is a demand for African products in Everett and I’m excited to give people that taste of home,” said Yusupha.
I asked him what he’s suggest for someone who had no experience with African cooking but was looking to try something. He suggested Domoda, the national dish of Gambia. A peanut butter stew, served over rice. He’s happy to hook you up with the perfect ingredients.
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