Sooyah Bistro, a Nigerian food brand, has awarded over N500,000 to winners of its Sooyah Dreams campaign, supporting grassroots entrepreneurship and inspiring small business growth.
The campaign, which ran from September 1 to 15, 2025, invited Nigerians to submit 60–120 second videos sharing their dreams and aspirations. Winners were celebrated at a ceremony held at the Sooyah Bistro outlet in Oniru, Lagos, where cheques and prizes were presented.
Victoria Orleans was named Grand Winner, receiving N250,000 to fund her poultry farm and charity academy for special needs and underprivileged children. Nwokolo Blessing, a private chef aiming to redefine the culinary space, won the second-place prize of N150,000. Other participants received consolation prizes and gifts worth N100,000.
Olamidun Ogundoyin, Founder of Sooyah Bistro, said the initiative reflected the company’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
Ogundoyin said, “When I started Sooyah Bistro with barely enough money for a full setup, the only capital I truly had was my belief in the dream and the grit to push it forward. For us, the ‘Sooyah Dreams’ initiative is not just about the money; it’s a permission to dream bigger, louder, and without fear. To Victoria and Blessing, your stories were powerful, your passion was undeniable, and we are honoured to be the first investors in your incredible journey.”
Orleans, one of the winners said, “Winning the ‘Sooyah Dreams’ campaign is a life-changer. My dream felt so big, and the start-up cost felt even bigger, but this N250,000 has immediately made it manageable. This isn’t just cash; it’s a massive vote of confidence.”
Blessing, the other winner added, “When you’re hustling, sometimes all you need is that one push to get you over the line, and this N150,000 is exactly that for me. The ‘Sooyah Dreams’ campaign proves that big brands can genuinely care about people on the ground trying to build their future.”
The event concluded with a celebratory toast and a renewed commitment from Sooyah Bistro to continue funding initiatives that combine business growth with community impact.
