Meet Lina Laetitia Derridj | Business woman

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lina Laetitia Derridj and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lina Laetitia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The decision to start my own business wasn’t something I rushed into it was the result of a two-year journey of reflection and observation. I spent a lot of time analyzing my environment and gradually came to realize that I already had many of the tools I needed to bring a project to life. This process also allowed me to study the market carefully, understand supply and demand, and position myself in a thoughtful, strategic way

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m a nutritionist, actress, and founder of Majorelle, a brunch and coffee shop in Algiers. Some may recognize me from Netflix’s The Ultimatum: France, but my true passion lies in celebrating Algerian culture through food. 

Born in Paris to Algerian parents, I’ve always felt a deep connection to my roots. After years of studying nutrition and performing on stage and screen, I felt a calling to return to Algeria and create something meaningful. Majorelle is the result—a space that reimagines traditional Algerian cuisine for a modern audience, blending heritage with contemporary flair.

Starting this venture wasn’t easy. Transitioning from the arts to entrepreneurship in a new environment came with its challenges. However, the unwavering support of my family especially my parents, husband, and brother and friends made it possible. Their belief in my vision kept me going during the toughest times.

What sets Majorelle apart is its authenticity. Every dish tells a story, every flavor evokes a memory. It’s more than just a coffee shop; it’s a tribute to our rich culture and a gathering place for the community.

Through this journey, I’ve learned the importance of resilience, staying true to oneself, and the power of community. I want the world to see Algeria’s beauty, warmth, and culinary richness. Majorelle is my way of sharing that with the world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We’d start with 2 days in Paris, my birthplace and where it all began. Breakfast at Café de Flore, a stroll through Montmartre, art at Musée d’Orsay, and dinner at Septime. Paris is elegance, inspiration, and my first love.

Then 2 days in Los Angeles, the city that taught me to dream big. We’d hike Runyon Canyon, brunch at République, visit The Broad, and enjoy sunset in Malibu. LA is bold, creative, and full of energy.

Finally, 2 days in Algiers, my roots, my soul. We’d explore the Casbah, sip tea by Notre-Dame d’Afrique, and reconnect with our heritage. And of course, we’d finish with brunch at Majorelle, my coffee shop a modern love letter to Algerian culture and cuisine.

Three cities, one story. A journey of identity, dreams, and home.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My Father, my mother, my husband and my borther.

Instagram: lina_derridj