Odza, Yaoundé resident Yutiambo Mineva is celebrating a major win after taking home the grand prize of 5,000,000 FCFA at the 12th edition of the Shirlma Show Business Pitch Competition! Mineva, the CEO and founder of Vital Plus Limited, garnered the attention of the judges with her groundbreaking product, AGA BABY WONDER CEREAL, a baby cereal that is free from lactose and additives.
“I’m a young entrepreneur,” Mineva proudly states. “This victory is a significant boost for my company.”
The 27-year-old entrepreneur has a bachelor’s degree in modern English letters, but her main focus is on developing healthy solutions for babies.
A Mother’s Inspiration
Mineva’s inspiration came from a personal experience. “In 2022, when I introduced my daughter to solid foods, she started having a lot of health problems,” she explains. “We were constantly visiting the hospital, and it turned out she was lactose intolerant.”
Unsatisfied with the limited lactose-free options available in the Cameroonian market, Mineva set out on a research expedition. “I searched for a classic porridge recipe that would be easy on her stomach,” she explains. “I discovered a unique blend of three natural ingredients – plantain, maize, and soybeans – which I carefully processed to create a highly nutritious and easily digestible product.”
The results had a profound impact on my life. “Within a week, my daughter started to feel better,” Mineva recalls. “Initially, we had our doubts, so I decided to share the recipe with two other parents who were also dealing with similar challenges.” It had a remarkable impact on their success as well!”
From Home Kitchen to Award-Winning Business
Inspired by her remarkable experiences, Mineva made the decision to share her creation with the world. “I began with humble beginnings, crafting the cereal in the comfort of my own home using just 10,000 FCFA worth of ingredients. I then packaged it in basic plastic bags,” she explains.
With the increasing buzz and a surge in demand, Mineva recognised the need to move forward. “I took care of registering the product, getting conformity certification, and making some investments in machinery,” she explains. “After relocating from our previous residence, we secured a suitable production space and began functioning as a formal entity.”
A Bright Future for AGA BABY WONDER CEREAL
After winning the grand prize at the Shirlma Show Business Pitch Competition, Mineva is poised to lead Vital Plus Limited to unprecedented success. “This victory is a significant turning point,” she proclaims. “This will enable us to increase production, broaden our reach, and provide assistance to a greater number of infants with lactose intolerance and allergies.”
AGA BABY WONDER CEREAL provides a nutritious and secure option for parents who prioritise their children’s well-being. Yutiambo Mineva’s story is a powerful example of determination, creativity, and the unwavering devotion of a mother – a remarkable blend that is bound to motivate aspiring business owners.
