Barbara (Nzinga) Allen | Irie Lyfe
| irielyfeja@gmail.com |
| What’s the name of your business, nonprofit or project? |
| Business- Irie Lyfe |
| What city and country is your business, nonprofit or project located in? |
| Airy Castle, St. Thomas, Jamaica |
| Links to Your Social Media Pages (if applicable) |
| @irielyfeja |
| Describe your business, nonprofit or project, and the products and/or services you offer? |
| Nestled along the scenic roads of Airy Castle, St. Thomas Parish, Jamaica, the Irie Lyfe Roadside Stand embodies the essence of Jamaican entrepreneurship and sustainability. Operated by Brian Allen and his wife Barbara Philbert Allen, this charming stand offers an array of products infused with the rich, natural flavors and benefits of locally sourced honey.The Irie Lyfe story began in 2012 when the Allen family started beekeeping to supplement their income. Their initial honey production soon expanded into a diverse range of products, combining traditional Jamaican ingredients with modern health trends. One of their standout offerings is their unique honey infusions. By blending honey with ginger and Scotch bonnet pepper, the Allens have created a range of condiments that deliver a delightful mix of sweetness and heat, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. These versatile products can be used as spreads, dips, or flavorful additions to sauces and marinades.Beyond their culinary delights, Irie Lyfe also leverages the natural properties of honey and beeswax to create body and haircare products. These include nourishing balms, lotions, and mosquito repellents, all crafted with the same dedication to quality that characterizes their food products. This diversification sets Irie Lyfe apart in a competitive market and highlights their commitment to sustainable and ethical production practices.The roadside stand itself is a beacon of rustic charm and authenticity. Visitors are greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere where they can browse handcrafted products while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Jamaican countryside. The stand operates largely on the honor system, reflecting the trust and community spirit that are core values of the Irie Lyfe philosophy.The Allens’ journey is one of passion, innovation, and resilience. After meeting in Canada and returning to Jamaica, they brought with them a vision of creating value-added products that celebrate the bounty of their homeland. Their commitment to quality and sustainability has earned them a loyal customer base, both locally and regionally, and their products have been featured at various expos and markets, highlighting the versatility and appeal of their offerings.Irie Lyfe’s success is a testament to the potential of small-scale agriculture and entrepreneurship in Jamaica. By leveraging local resources and traditional knowledge, the Allens have built a business that not only supports their family but also contributes to the local economy and promotes environmental stewardship.The Irie Lyfe Roadside Stand is more than just a place to purchase unique and delicious products; it is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit of Jamaica. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist exploring St. Thomas, a visit to this stand promises a memorable experience filled with the warmth, flavor, and innovation that define Irie Lyfe. |
| Are you Caribbean or African, or of Caribbean or African descent? If you are, please tell us details. |
| I am Caribbean. Born in Grenada. Raised in Canada. Moved to Jamaica with my Jamaican husband to raise our children and to create an Irie Lyfe for all of us. |
| Do you think your Caribbean or African upbringing/heritage has impacted your work? If so, please explain how. |
| There is a work ethic handed down from all Caribbean parents reminding their children that we must work twice as hard, never give up, and do it all while smiling. |
| How does your work positively impact culture + community? |
| Giving back to our community through various engagements in agriculture, and api-culture. Being an example of thinking out of the box, creative, and innovative. |
| How should potential customers and persons interested in networking & partnerships contact you? |
| @irielyfeja, 1876-583-0836 (wa) |
| What message of hope or inspiration would you like to share with other women in our community who are also pursuing their dreams? |
| Stay focused. Work hard. It’s all worth it. |
