The ‘Home from Home’ project aims to explore the legacies of pioneering British Nigerians in the UK and their impact on society. The project highlights and celebrates British Nigerian contributions to the cultural, political, educational, artistic, spiritual, and sporting life of Britain and London, in particular. In this interview we feature Elizabeth Solaru, a multi award-winning luxury business consultant, author, and world renowned cake artist. As the CEO and Founder of the Diversity in Luxury Awards, she is a pioneering voice advocating for inclusivity and representation in the luxury sector.
Celebrating my Nigerian heritage is all about savouring the rich culture, especially through food, music, fashion, and creativity. Food takes centre stage for me, whether it’s enjoying a delicious plate of ewa agoyin with freshly baked sourdough bread (trust me, you’ll thank me later), the spicy perfection of suya, paired with our very own world-famous jollof rice. These dishes bring people together and remind me of home, no matter where I am.
Music is another key part of any celebration, with Afrobeat rhythms from artists like Rema, CKay, Olamide, Wizkid, and Flavour providing the perfect soundtrack.
Then of course there’s the vibrant world of Nigerian Twitter and blogs, where the cutting humour, wit, and shared experiences of Nigerians come alive. It’s a space where we celebrate our wins, debate fiercely, and keep the culture thriving online.
Of course, no celebration of Nigerian heritage is complete without the culture and fashion—bold Ankara prints, beaded Aso-Ebi styles, and statement Geles (which often give me a headache) all bring life to every event. The creativity extends into Nigerian art, where our unique expressions in design, film, and music constantly inspire me.
What does being “British Nigerian” mean to you?
Being British Nigerian means embracing the best of two rich, distinct cultures that have shaped who I am. It’s a blend of heritage and identity that allows me to live in a space of duality, taking pride in both my Nigerian roots and my British upbringing.
On one hand, my Nigerian side is all about the strong sense of family, education and of course the strong entrepreneurial spirit that drives me. On the other hand, being British adds another layer to my identity. It’s the love of a good cup of tea, a stickler for being on time, the politeness (while possibly seething underneath) and the humour that’s always there. It’s also about growing up with access to other perspectives while maintaining a deep connection to my Nigerian heritage.
Together, being British Nigerian means I can effortlessly navigate between worlds. It’s a beautiful, dynamic identity that I carry with pride—one that’s steeped in tradition yet open to the future, where both cultures blend to give me a unique perspective on life.
How do you stay connected to your identity?
To stay connected to my identity as a Nigerian-British luxury business consultant and award-winning cake maker, I regularly reflect on my journey and the values that shape who I am. Engaging with fellow professionals in the luxury industry, especially those focused on diversity, helps me feel rooted in my community. I’m always eager to share luxury trends regularly on my social media platforms, which ties in beautifully with my newly published book, The Luxpreneur. Practicing mindfulness keeps me grounded in my dynamic career, allowing me to navigate challenges with clarity. Celebrating traditions, especially through my culinary creations, is important to me as it reinforces my connection to my roots and reminds me of the richness of my background.
What does culture mean to you?
To me, culture is the rich tapestry of shared values, traditions, customs, and expressions that shape our identities and connect us to one another. Nigerian culture, in particular, is inherently rich and very expressive, celebrating vibrancy through music, dance, and art. This expressive nature fosters in us a deep appreciation for beauty and craftsmanship, making it natural for us to gravitate toward luxury goods and experiences.
I see culture as a bridge that connects people across different backgrounds, fostering understanding and appreciation for our unique differences.
What do you imagine the future of the British Nigerian Community to look like in the next few years based on your industry?
I see a bright future for the British Nigerian community in the next few years, especially in industries like luxury, fashion, writing and the creative arts. I think we’ll definitely see more opportunities for Nigerian-British professionals to shine and share their unique talents and stories.
In the luxury sector, a sector I am very passionate about, I can see a growing interest in brands that highlight African craftsmanship and culture. There are already exciting partnerships between British luxury brands and a few Nigerian artists, such as Yinka Ilori and the Bulgari Hotel, the winners of our Diversity in Luxury Award for cultural collaboration.
Culinary experiences will also be a big part of this future. With more people appreciating diverse cuisines, Nigerian food and flavours have become even more popular in the UK. Adejoké Bakare became the first black female chef in the UK to win a Michelin-star and her restaurant Chishuru started life as a pop-up in Brixton.
I believe the British Nigerian community will continue to thrive, making a real impact in various fields and helping to shape what luxury and creativity mean today. It’s all about celebrating our rich culture and sharing it with the world.
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