Yasmeen Hasan and Margaret Brabham work together as “The Spice Sisters.” Photo: Provided.

What happens when two women from diverse backgrounds start to collaborate? They find common ground at the kitchen table, magic happens, and a company is started.  And when it was time to find a kitchen to grow their condiment business? Cambria County brought solutions — and provided a better quality of life at the same time.

Margaret Brabham and Yasmeen Hasan first met at The Volunteer Center of Arlington Heights in Chicago and became fast friends. Brabham studied Meetings, Conventions and Events in college and had a lifelong interest in Anthropology.  Hasan earned a master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences and had a lifelong talent for cooking and hospitality. “We found we had so much in common; sharing lunches and table talk is how we bonded,” said Hasan.

Margaret Brabham is Jewish, and Yasmeen Hasan is Muslim. Brabham’s ancestors are also Italian, while Hasan is from India and immigrated to Chicago at 4 years old with her parents. Both love traditional home recipes with a vast array of herbs and spices to keep things interesting.  “There was so much magic happening at that table,” agreed Yasmeen and Margaret.  “We both truly believe that when people share a meal it makes the world a smaller, more connected place. One of our core goals is to share the food and flavors of many countries and cultures that can be used to easily prepare healthy food bursting with fresh, whole ingredients and exciting flavors.” Brabham said.

Read more about the Spice Sisters here.

A selection of Spice Sisters’ products. Photo: Provided.

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.