60 Seconds with Sarah Njodi

Tell us about your role and your organisation
ITSA Coffee is a mobile horsebox that serves freshly made hot and cold drinks alongside homemade sweet treats at events and functions. We focus on trying to showcase local produce and feel it’s important to give back. We are in the process of looking for a charity to partner with to do events and give back. While it’s a family effort, I spearhead and fund the business.

Give us a brief overview of your career journey so far
I spent over 15 years in education, mostly as a primary school teacher with some leadership experience, teaching in South Korea, the UK, but mostly in Dubai. I absolutely loved teaching, but I’ve always embraced change and new challenges. While teaching, I completed a Graduate Diploma in Law, which eventually led me into legal and compliance roles. Although rewarding, I found myself missing the creativity that teaching had given me. Starting and running my own business has reignited that creative spark and allows me to combine organisation, innovation, and passion in a new way.

What is one skill that helps you most in your role and why?
Organisation! My life often feels like a never-ending to-do list, but being organised ensures things get done on time and in the right order which is essential when juggling a business and family life.

What advice do you have for women in your industry?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help and always be your own biggest cheerleader. I’m still working on this myself, but I think it’s so important. Delegate where you can, and don’t be shy about shouting from the rooftops about who you are and why your business is brilliant.

Are there any exciting plans in the year ahead for your organisation?
We’re not quite operational yet, but we’re aiming to launch by the end of September 2025. We’re thrilled to have already received a Level 5 Food Hygiene Rating and are now finalising the last few details before opening. Our goal is to secure at least four events before the end of the year, and we can’t wait

Who has been your biggest career inspiration and why?
Emma Grede. Like me, she’s an East London girl, and she has achieved incredible success while remaining humble and authentic. She’s a reminder that with determination and vision, anything is possible.

If you had to pick your soundtrack song to get you through the working day, what would it be?
Gotta Get Thru This by Daniel Bedingfield it’s upbeat, motivating, and keeps me pushing forward on the busy days.

How can members connect with you?
You can connect with me on Instagram at @itsacoffee2025 or by email at itsacoffee2025@gmail.com.