A shared interest in experiencing different cultures and a passion for helping others led to the creation of Tiiga. Co-founders, Jeff Tezak and Harrouna Malgoubri, met while pursuing degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; but that was just the beginning. Both have traveled extensively, witnessing various cultures and engaging with people from all over the world.

Both felt a strong calling to connect cultures and create opportunities for improving people’s lives. It wasn’t uncommon for Jeff and Harrouna to share cuisine and knowledge from the places they’ve traveled to; however this changed when Harrouna shared a baobab-based beverage from his native country of Africa.

From initial taste to learning more about the health benefits of the baobab fruit, Jeff and Harrouna’s conversation led to the idea of combining the power of baobab with other native flavors of West Africa. Soon after, they explored ways to elevate the economic and social value of these potential baobab-based products. Tiiga was born: this low-calorie and natural drink option is sustainably produced and has the potential to create positive change for women and entire communities in Africa.