In a world where style and sustainability meet, Yele Dinnerware is leading the way. Emerging as an eco-friendly innovation, Yele is transforming the dining experience with products that honor aesthetic appeal with an easily compostable, toss-it-and-forget-about-it product. Founded by visionary Sudeepa Prakash, Yele offers a range of elegant dinnerware options crafted from areca palm sheaths. Thanks to the support of Business Impact NW and her relentless dedication, Yele’s founder has reached new heights—and she’s only getting started.
The Global Impact
Sudeepa founded Yele Dinnerware to address waste in the food industry, but its impact has extended far beyond that. Yele uses fallen areca palm sheaths from India. These leaves are collected, pressed, and shaped into various forms of dinnerware at Yele’s manufacturing facility.
By hiring women from a predominantly farming region, Yele promotes economic advancement and fosters long-term financial sustainability in the area. Yele’s products are shipped worldwide, serving as single-use ware for catering, restaurants, and the hospitality industry, creating additional opportunities to reduce waste and generate jobs. She says,
“When women work, families and communities thrive. Increased earnings contribute to better nutrition, healthcare, and education for children, improving the overall quality of life in the village.”
Mala, an employee of Yele, based in India, says, “It is super helpful to have this job. Having this factory has been great because it’s convenient to work there, and other jobs are not year-round, whereas the factory gives year-round employment.
Sudeepa has successfully integrated her cultural background and cherished memories of sharing meals on palm leaves into an innovative business with significant potential that positively impacts the economy on a global scale.
A Legacy of Growth
Yele Dinnerware first captured the spotlight at the Celebrating Dreams 2024 event, where its founder showcased her inspiring journey. Celebrating Dreams, hosted by Business Impact NW, is a networking opportunity that highlights and supports women-owned businesses. Each participant brings unique products to the table, offering samples and fostering meaningful connections.
Thanks to the exposure and networking opportunities provided by Celebrating Dreams, her brand took significant strides forward. Filled with excitement and ready to share her latest achievements, she’s ready to come back for Celebrating Dreams 2025. With a fresh perspective as a business owner, she looks forward to connecting with even more community members and continuing to inspire others along the way. Reflecting on her previous experience, Sudeepa says,
“To see that many businesses run by that many women and the hustle, it was just amazing. I discovered most of the Business Impact NW resources out of the conference!”
Expanding Horizons
Yele Dinnerware recently participated at the Change Starts Here Sourcing Forum, captivating attendees with a stunning showcase of their eco-friendly tableware. Guests could get up close and personal with Yele’s products, experiencing firsthand the durability and variety that set them apart. This forum served as a bridge between small businesses and larger corporate buyers— and it delivered! In an exhilarating moment, Sudeepa landed a significant sale on the spot, highlighting the rising demand for her innovative tableware.
Yele is on an exciting growth trajectory. With each achievement, the company has ramped up its capacity, now fully equipped to cater for events with up to 1,000 guests. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, a wedding, or a community celebration, Yele’s stylish and sustainable dinnerware brings an authentic touch to every occasion.
Sudeepa also engages children in conversation about eco-friendly products! Through fun and interactive experiences, she’s teaching kids how to appreciate and use dinnerware perfect for small hands and kind to the planet. With Yele, Sudeepa uses every moment as an opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate her business. She says,
“I show the kids how easy it is and have them toss the products into the garden, and then we discuss composting. It’s a great, fun way for them to learn!”
Beyond Dinnerware: Bangalore Kitchen
In addition to her Yele venture, Sudeepa also runs Bangalore Kitchen. This Seattle-based Indian food business showcases the vibrant and rich flavors of South India at local markets. Her commitment to sharing traditional cuisine shines through in every dish, turning each meal into a celebration of culture and culinary heritage.
Bangalore Kitchen has gained a fantastic reputation for its mouthwatering dosas, which are always a crowd favorite! But that’s not all—this culinary gem also offers an enticing array of biryanis, delightful desserts, chai, and more. You can catch Bangalore Kitchen at exciting pop-up events, including the Ballard Farmers Market in Seattle.
Every delicious dish from Bangalore Kitchen is served on Yele Dinnerware, creating a beautiful synergy between the two brands. This union enhances the dining experience and also extends her entrepreneurial reach, showcasing Sudeepa’s passion for culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship.
In a moment of kismet, Sudeepa had an experience at Bangalore Kitchen with a customer who seemed very familiar to her. The customer had been trying to come to Bangalore Kitchen for some time and finally had the chance when it was at the Ballard Farmers Market. Sudeepa recalls,
“When I was at Celebrating Dreams, there was a booth that the Cambodian Cultural Society was at. They told me about the Indian American Community Services- WA (IAC WS).” She adds, “So I have been emailing this person, and she showed up at Bangalore Kitchen. If you connect all the dots from this point on, it all starts with the first dot at Celebrating Dreams last year.”
Looking Ahead: New Ventures and Connections
With an eye on the future, Yele Dinnerware’s founder plans to launch a blog. It will offer insights into the inspiration behind her products, sustainable practices, and the joy of Indian culinary traditions. Her story is one of passion and persistence, and she’s eager to inspire others on their own entrepreneurial journeys.
Yele Dinnerware’s growth serves as a shining example of what’s possible with dedication and community support. Stay tuned for her upcoming blog. Witness how Yele continues to bring people together, one beautiful plate at a time.
Interested in celebrating and supporting women-owned businesses? Join us at Celebrating Dreams and be part of the inspiring stories shaping our communities. Click here to buy your tickets today!
About the author
Emma Seymour is a Communications and Public Relations professional specializing in storytelling, relationship building, and content development. A military spouse and former small business owner, she advocates for veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses, and has delivered keynote speeches on workforce development, military programs, and childhood trauma.