Renowned American singer, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, has generously donated £8,000 ($8,793.20) to a Nigerian restaurant located in North London that was on the brink of closure due to the mounting cost of living crisis.
The restaurant, known as Chuku’s, proudly claims to be the world’s first Nigerian tapas restaurant and is run by siblings Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederick.
With its innovative approach to traditional dishes and enticing Nigerian tapas, Chuku’s has garnered attention from A-list celebrities, footballers, and everyday diners alike. Beyoncé, who recently sold out five consecutive shows at Tottenham Hotspur’s stadium, has expanded her philanthropic efforts to support local businesses in London.
Through her charitable foundation, she has committed a remarkable $1 million (£806,401.00) to assist struggling businesses like Chuku’s in various cities worldwide.
The Luncheon, held at the prestigious Four Seasons in Tower Hill, welcomed over 100 entrepreneurs, offering them an opportunity to win prizes totaling $100,000 (£806,090). Among the 400 applications received, Emeka and his sister Ifeyinwa made the list of the distinguished 2% of winners.
Remarking on the grant awarded their restaurant, Chuku co-founder, Ifeyinwa stated: “I still can’t quite believe that Beyoncé has backed our restaurant, it feels a bit surreal.”
Her brother and business partner, Emeka noted: “This grant couldn’t have come at a better time.
“Chuku’s, like many other restaurants without financial reserves, has been severely affected by lockdowns and the escalating cost of living crisis.
“Every day, we fight to remain open and reach our fourth anniversary.
“This funding will alleviate some of our struggles and enable us to continue showcasing Nigerian culture on Tottenham’s High Road for the time being.”