Doris Akua Awuah, CEO of Big Base Restaurant, Shares Her Journey on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide
On Business Link with DJ Nyaami, Doris Akua Awuah, CEO of Big Base Restaurant, shared her inspiring journey from working as a waiter to becoming a successful restaurant owner.
Doris began her career working at a restaurant in Community 2, Tema, where she gained valuable experience. Over time, she realized she wanted to start her own business. In 1999, she secured a shop with the help of Mr. Badu, despite struggling to raise the initial payment. She started small, serving drinks and soups, and gradually built a loyal customer base.
She recalled how influential figures like Dr. Asiamah, PV Obeng, Kennedy Agyapong, and Kofi Badu supported her business in its early days. Initially, her restaurant specialized in omotuo (rice balls) and soups, but as demand grew, she expanded her menu. Doris emphasized that starting a business is never easy—workers may leave unexpectedly, and challenges will arise—but perseverance is key.
Doris also spoke about balancing her business with raising her children. One of her sons, who is now in the U.S., used to help her pound fufu and serve customers before traveling abroad. She stressed the importance of knowing the trade yourself, as relying solely on employees can be risky. Even though she now has experienced staff, she still oversees operations personally to maintain quality.
She acknowledged the spiritual aspect of business, stating that prayer has played a significant role in her success. She has seen many businesses collapse due to envy and negative spiritual influences. At one point, thieves stole her entire pot of groundnut soup, forcing her to start over the next morning. Despite such setbacks, she remained resilient.
Doris believes there is wealth in Ghana and encourages people to invest in businesses rather than always seeking opportunities abroad. While some may travel for holidays, she sees Ghana as her home and the best place for her business. Looking ahead, she plans to expand by opening a branch at Shai Hills and will invite DJ Nyaami to cover the launch.
She expressed gratitude for her journey, saying that even though many other restaurants have come and gone, she has remained in business due to hard work and divine favor. Even “angels” come to eat at her restaurant, she joked. She also mentioned that during President Kufuor’s era, she acquired land, which she has managed wisely.
Her business has allowed her to educate her children and support her family. She noted that her late husband passed away along the way, but she has been able to sustain the business and provide for her children. One of them now manages the drinks section, while another oversees customer service. She hopes to pass down the business to them in the future.
For those starting businesses, Doris advises patience and focus. Rapid expansion can lead to disappointment, especially if employees handling food deliveries fail to meet expectations. Instead, she recommends starting small and growing steadily.
Big Base Restaurant, located on Com 9 Benghazi Road, serves a variety of local dishes, including:
- Fufu (hand-pounded, not machine-made)
- Omotuo (rice balls)
- Konkonte
- Palava sauce with yam
- Akyeke
- Catering for events
Doris encourages young women to learn skills and work hard rather than depending on men for financial support. She believes that when a woman is financially independent, she earns respect.
Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs:
“Whatever you do, if God is in it, it will survive.”
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