Momi Borgohain

Momi Borgohain, a 50-year-old social entrepreneur from Jorhat, Assam, did not begin her journey with a vision of building a business. Her story began with responsibility, loss, and a quiet determination to keep going when everything around her felt uncertain.

Before 2016, Momi lived a stable and familiar life with her husband and two daughters. The sudden loss of her husband changed everything, making her the sole provider for her family. Facing both financial burdens and emotional weight, she found herself without a clear path, driven by the need to survive and secure her children’s future.

During challenging times, Momi turned to cooking—a daily activity that became her strength. She started by taking small buffet and conference food orders, connecting with people step by step. The appreciation from customers restored her confidence and provided much-needed income and support for her family.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, many small businesses struggled. Yet, Momi persevered through online food delivery and cloud kitchen operations, ensuring her work continued even in the most uncertain circumstances. Her kitchen became a place of resilience and hope.

In 2023, after the loss of her mother, Momi’s sense of purpose became even clearer. She realised her journey was about more than earning—it was about rebuilding and giving back to the community. This led to the establishment of Momi’s Kitchen as a physical space dedicated to authentic, traditional Assamese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its simplicity, affordability, and the comforting sense of home it offers to customers.

Her dedication as a single mother and entrepreneur is evident, with more than 100 customers visiting daily. She has expanded her work steadily and now impacts others by employing persons with disabilities. Momi has also served as a food judge at school events in Jorhat and has been a two-time beauty pageant winner. She is recognised for her contribution to traditional Assamese cuisine with multiple culinary awards.

Before establishing her restaurant after the pandemic, Momi’s achievements included working through buffet orders, online food delivery, and running a cloud kitchen during difficult times. Her continued effort has resulted in significant expansion and recognition. She has been invited as a food judge for school events, honoured as a beauty pageant winner twice, and received several awards as a chef for promoting and preserving Assamese cuisine. Above all, Momi takes pride in building an independent, dignified livelihood while supporting her daughters.

Momi’s commitment goes beyond entrepreneurship. By employing persons with disabilities, she ensures her business contributes positively to society, fostering inclusion and empowerment. Her work stands as a testament to honest effort, resilience, and purpose—demonstrating that empowerment often begins with small, courageous steps.

Today, Momi’s Kitchen is not just a business, but a symbol of strength and possibility for women and the community. Through her journey, Momi shows that, even in the face of loss, it is possible to rise, rebuild, and redefine one’s path while uplifting others as well.

“If you believe in yourself and stay on the right path, nothing in this world is impossible.”— Momi Borgohain, Founder & Social Entrepreneur, Momi’s Kitchen