08/31/2026
Alabama Leading Ladies - ABWA ALL Chapter Announces Recipient for their 2026 WOMENFORWOMEN EXCELLENCE AWARD, Nikia M. Lightfoot, owner of vujee_vegan!
Lightfoot will receive the prestigious award at the Alabama Leading Ladies - ABWA ALL Chapter 2026 ABW DAY WomenForWomen Speakers Conference & Fashion Show on Saturday, September 12 at the GigaParts Huntsville Conference Center. Doors open 10am.
Early Bird $35 ends TONIGHT at Midnight!
Register NOW: https://allca.betterworld.org/events/2026-womenforwomen-2nd-annual-fu
ABOUT OUR HONOREE
Nikia Lightfoot’s entrepreneurial journey began with a childhood dream sparked in her mother’s and grandmother’s kitchen. By age 12, she envisioned owning a restaurant, though she did not yet know how that dream would unfold. Years later, after being diagnosed with breast cancer at 34, she embraced a plant-based lifestyle that transformed her health and ultimately became the foundation for her life’s work.
Today, as founder and owner of Vujee Vegan, Nikia has built one of Huntsville’s most influential culinary brands while promoting health, joy, and community through plant-based food. A 14-year breast cancer survivor, she has used her story to advocate for prevention, early detection, and lifestyle awareness, including as a spokeswoman for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine’s “Let’s Beat Breast Cancer” 2025 Campaign.
Vujee Vegan has grown from a home-based meal prep concept into a brick-and-mortar restaurant, citywide favorite, and award-winning culinary force. Nikia’s honors include the Catalyst Center 2023 Entrepreneur of the Year Award, multiple Madison County People’s Choice recognitions, UAB Excellence in Business honors, Blazer Fast 40 recognition, a 2025 PETA Award, and national visibility alongside influencers such as Kountry Wayne and Tabitha Brown.
Her influence extends well beyond the restaurant. She has served as a featured chef for Graze Huntsville 2025, spoken at Alabama A&M University and Oakwood University’s Visions and Dreamers Conference, mentored young entrepreneurs, participated in Concerts in the Park, catered community programs, supported local organizations, and encouraged women navigating life transitions.
What distinguishes Nikia is her ability to turn personal purpose into public impact. Through VUJEE — Vibrant, Unshakeable, Joyful, Excellent, and Evolving — she inspires others to honor their stories, persevere through challenges, choose joy, pursue excellence, and continue growing. In the kitchen, classroom, community, and beyond, Nikia leads with vision, courage, and integrity.
