ADELEKE BALIKIS YETUNDE
Culinary Student · Oshodi-Isolo
Less than 1 year cooking experiencePersonal information
- Full name
- ADELEKE BALIKIS YETUNDE
- Location
- Oshodi-Isolo
- Gender
- Female
- Age
- 20
- Social handles
- Tiktok: __yetunde05,simico.kitchen, Instagram:simis_kitchen0_
Applicant profile
- Applicant type
- Culinary Student
- Applicant type other
- Recent Culinary Graduate
- Current occupation
- Chef
- Cooking experience
- Less than 1 year
Competition experience
- Prior competitions
- No
- Competition details
- —
Competition readiness
- Available throughout competition
- Yes
Entrepreneurship and impact
- Runs a food business
- Yes
- Business name
- Simi&co.kitchen
- Business type
- Food Vendor
- Years in operation
- Almost a year
- Business challenge
- Eko Flavours could help me overcome the challenge of gaining more exposure, building confidence, and connecting with people in the culinary industry. It would give me an opportunity to showcase my skills and learn from other talented chefs.
Culinary journey
My culinary journey started with a genuine passion for cooking and a desire to build a career in the culinary industry. I enrolled in culinary school to develop my skills, gain professional training, and become a qualified chef while also strengthening my food business. The experience has equipped me with knowledge of both local and international cuisine, food presentation, kitchen operations, and the confidence to create memorable dining experiences.
Cooking inspiration
My cooking is inspired by my passion for creating delicious, high-quality meals that bring people together. I enjoy exploring different flavors, learning new techniques, and combining creativity with attention to detail. Every dish I prepare reflects my commitment to excellence and my desire to leave a lasting impression on everyone who tastes my food.
Signature dish
Smoked Ofada Rice with Ayamase Sauce, Grilled Peppered Catfish and Golden brown fried plantain
My signature dish is Smoked Ofada Rice with Ayamase Sauce and Grilled Peppered Catfish because it celebrates the bold, authentic flavors of Nigeria while showcasing traditional cooking techniques with a refined presentation. I enjoy transforming familiar local ingredients into an elevated dining experience without losing their cultural identity.
Why I want to participate
I want to participate in Eko Flavours because I see it as an opportunity to showcase my culinary skills, creativity, and passion for both Nigerian and international cuisine. I want to learn from other talented chefs and food enthusiasts, challenge myself in a professional environment, and gain valuable experience that will help me grow into a well-rounded chef. Most importantly, I want to share my love for food and represent the rich and diverse flavours of Lagos through my cooking.
What winning would mean
Winning this competition would be life-changing for me. it would be validation of years of passion, hard work, and dedication to cooking. I would use the opportunity to invest in my culinary growth, promote Nigerian cuisine, and inspire others to believe that dreams can become reality through passion and perseverance.
For me, this is more than a competition, it’s a chance to turn my passion into lasting impact.
