Meet Vasta Muhimpundu | Chef & Nurturer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vasta Muhimpundu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vasta, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
At Iwacu Flavors, social impact is at the heart of everything I do. My mission is to inspire people to embrace plant-based eating in a way that feels joyful, accessible, and deeply nourishing, not just for themselves, but for the world around them.

Through my work, I create experiences that bring people together around food. Whether it’s hosting cultural dinners, teaching free Zoom cooking classes, or leading volunteer initiatives like Together We Nourish & Serve, I’m building spaces where people can connect, learn, and feel empowered to make choices that are better for their health and for the planet.

I also focus on celebrating my Rwandan heritage by introducing traditional and modern African plant-based dishes to new audiences. Food is such a powerful way to spark conversations about culture, sustainability, and compassion.

Ultimately, I want Iwacu Flavors to be more than just a business, it’s a movement to promote mindful eating, reduce food waste, support local farmers & businesses, and create a ripple effect of positive change in communities.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on this journey is the power of clarity and intention. It’s easy to get swept up in noise and distractions, but the real strength comes from knowing who you are and moving through the world with confidence and purpose. That mindset has guided me through challenges and kept me aligned with the bigger vision for my life and work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is a fun one since I’m still getting to know my city, but here’s what a perfect day with my best friend would look like: a light hike in the morning or a walk along Santa Fe, brunch at Gladys, an afternoon of spa time, sunbathing, and cocktails at Fellow Traveler, and ending with a sunset dinner at Flagstaff House. Simple, soulful, and full of joy!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This journey has often felt lonely, but I wouldn’t be where I am without the support of some incredible people along the way. I want to thank John, Wim, Maurice, Elisa, and Bianca for believing in me during crucial moments and supported me in ways that truly carried me forward. To my siblings, you inspire me every day to lead with courage so you can shine even brighter. And to every stranger and acquaintance whose kind words or encouragement lifted me when I needed it most, thank you for seeing me.

Website: https://iwacuflavors.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefvasta/

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/vastamuhimpundu

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iwacuflavors1

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@IwacuFlavors-PlantBased/featured