Zeinorin Stephen Angkang always believed food carried memories. But as she tasted her mother’s healing broth, something was missing. She had followed every step, yet the warmth, the depth of flavor—the essence of home—was absent.
Born in Manipur, she left seeking opportunities, convinced success lay elsewhere. Yet, this simple failure pulled her back. She realized the ingredients from her homeland held a unique quality, shaped by the rich biodiversity of the Naga Indigenous people. This discovery ignited a passion that led to Hill Wild, blending tradition with entrepreneurship.
Hill Wild is more than just a business—it’s a way to honor tradition while empowering Indigenous farmers. By ensuring they receive fair compensation, the brand helps preserve biodiversity and bring the flavors of Naga heritage to the world such as the Sirarakhong Chilli Powder (a GI tagged item).
Building Hill Wild wasn’t easy. She faced countless setbacks, struggling with doubts and the pressure of creating something meaningful. There were days of exhaustion, moments when she questioned if she was on the right path. But in those moments, she clung to her faith. Philippians 3:14 became her lifeline: “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Her daily prayer remained steadfast: “Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”
Slowly, breakthroughs began to unfold. Hill Wild gained recognition, and people resonated with its mission. The business expanded beyond what she had imagined, leading to the creation of the Naga Super Club. Through it all, she had not only built a brand but had also created a way to preserve and share the flavors of her homeland with the world. What began as a failed recipe became a breakthrough movement, honoring her roots and uplifting her community.
