By Maryam Patel
Two childhood friends had a successful first pop-up event for their business selling the trending green tea matcha and chai at the University of Leicester.
Medical physiology student Amani Dagia, studying at University of Leicester and Safaa Suleyman, an education studies graduate from University of Nottingham, started their business ‘Ma-Chaii’ in March.
The pair had their first public event on Tuesday, October 7, at the University of Leicester Students’ Union.
After holding a private sip and paint event for which tickets sold out within 24 hours, they held their first pop-up with a handmade drinks cart, made by Mrs Dagia’s husband, Salmaan Mohammed.
“Two events in one week was our greatest achievement,” said Mrs Dagia. “The outcome was an overwhelming success.”
Their inspiration began from the trending green-tea drink, matcha, and connecting back to their African/Asian roots with the chai aspect.
“It’s such a big part of ethnic minority cultures to drink tea and a lot of our drinks are inspired by our culture,” said Miss Suleyman.
They also aim to build a space for women as they feel there is a gap in the community.
Mrs Dagia said: “I would say Ma-Chaii is a community of like-minded individuals who love caffeine, community and womanhood.”
Both owners are open to feedback, and they are always aiming to improve. They say it’s helpful to know what people like.
The two went through several trials of their recipes for drinks such as the Karakedae Mango and Amina’s Ginger Tea, both inspired by their heritage and family.
“Everyone in our community has been so supportive and never hesitated to help out of the goodness of their hearts.”
This winter they plan to host a Ma-Chaii movie night.
The premise of the event is to bring together a community, and they plan to host more than one with exclusive drinks.
They aim to build a relationship with the people who attend their events.
Miss Suleyman said: “Ma-Chaii is very much us, us in a personification of a business. We really want to make the consumer feel like Ma-Chaii is yours as much as it’s ours.”
Further details on upcoming events are shared on their Instagram @drink.machaii. They also provide an email for any enquiries sales.ma.chaii@gmail.com.
