Acerca de

Our Story

       Secil is a woman of refined taste and sophisticated sensibilities and  her life has been a journey of passion, dedication, and adventure. Born in Turkey in 1982, she was raised amidst the lush hazelnut trees that her grandparents cultivated, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the natural bounty of the earth. After studying English Language and Literature, she pursued a career as an educator, spending nearly a decade teaching students of all ages.

​

     Then she ventured to Milan to pursue a Master's degree in educational administration. There, she also indulged her passion for food, taking cooking classes from some of the most renowned chefs, honing her skills and expanding her knowledge of the culinary arts. In her spare time, Secil indulged in her other great passion: travel. She journeyed throughout Italy, savouring the local cuisine and immersing herself in the country's rich cultural heritage. Her travels also brought her to London, where she settled with her husband and daughter three years ago.

Today, Secil is the founder and proprietor of Hillman Whole Foods, a purveyor of premium nuts, dried fruits, chocolate, and other healthful snacks. Her keen eye for quality and dedication to sustainable, ethical sourcing have made her a leader in the industry, and her products are sought after by discerning foodies around London.

​

   Yet despite her many accomplishments, Secil remains grounded in the simple pleasures of life. Cooking for her family and friends brings her immense joy, and she takes great pleasure in sharing her passion for food with her daughter, who shares her mother's discerning palate. Secil's household is completed by her faithful companions: Peanut, a loyal Labrador, and PonPon, an elegant feline.