From Dreams to Dishes: Breshna Alemi’s Journey of Resilience and Renewal
After years of moving between countries and adapting to new cultures, one thing always remained constant for Breshna Alemi: food. The flavors she encountered across the world didn’t just nourish her—they inspired her. Cooking became her anchor, a joyful expression of resilience and love.
In her home country, Afghanistan, Breshna transformed that passion into purpose. She became the first woman to own a food production factory in her region—a groundbreaking achievement driven by courage and vision. Her business, Nisa Criterion, created jobs for over 50 people and empowered her community through food. Alongside the factory, she opened a small restaurant that quickly became a local favorite.
But everything changed.
Due to political instability, Breshna was forced to leave her home and the flourishing business she had built from the ground up. She arrived in the United States just one year ago, carrying with her not only the memories of her success, but also the determination to start anew.
Today, as a refugee chef and business owner, Breshna is reigniting her dream through Nisa Criterion once again—this time in a new country. With more than 20 years of culinary and entrepreneurial experience, she is working to reestablish her food business, share her beloved recipes, and serve the community that now surrounds her.
Breshna is also a proud member of the Chef’s Club, a cohort program under the Refugee Women’s Network that supports New American chefs like her in launching and growing their food businesses. Through the program, she is teaching virtual cooking classes, exploring catering opportunities, and connecting with a community that believes in her talent and potential. Chef’s Club is helping her bring her food—and her story—to new tables and audiences.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that passion and persistence can survive even the most difficult circumstances. Every dish Breshna prepares is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of heritage, resilience, and the courage to begin again.
To order food from Nisa Criterion or book Breshna Alemi for your next event, contact her at:
📧 [email protected]
📞 943-219-4791
I tried Breshna’s food and I cannot say enough to describe it. I ordered food from Breshna for a small gathering that I hosted and the food was so delicious, clean and neat and very affordable