The Akintola Car Park at Obafemi Awolowo University came alive on Wednesday as food lovers, students and spectators gathered for the Golden Penny Pasta Cooking Competition. The event concluded with excitement as Roshidat Aderanti Raji, a 400-level student of Education and English Language, emerged as the winner.
Roshidat, who is also the founder of Roshie’s Kitchen, stole the spotlight with her flavourful and well-presented macaroni dish, earning her the highly coveted first-place position. Speaking shortly to INFOCUS after her victory, she described the experience as ‘absolutely amazing’, adding that the journey from creating her entry video to hearing her name announced as the winner was both ‘exciting and rewarding.’
A Cooking Passion Rooted in Childhood
In her interview, Roshidat shared the inspiring story behind her culinary journey, which began as early as Primary One. Her passion for cooking grew out of necessity. Her elder sister, who had just finished secondary school at that time, was often reluctant to wake up early to prepare, which led to Roshidat arriving at school late. Tired of this constant lateness, she took matters into her own hands by waking up at 4:00 a.m. to cook, wash dishes, and sweep the house, all while still making it to school on time. ‘That was where my passion for cooking truly began,’ she said.
Her style and creativity in the kitchen have been shaped not only by these early challenges but also by her mother, whose dedication to cooking left a lasting impression on her. She also cited popular culinary star Hilda Baci and her mother as significant sources of inspiration.
Although she registered for an online class with Hilda Baci’s mother through SLOT last year, school exams prevented her from attending. Still, she remained in the class group and revisited the lessons whenever she needed guidance or fresh ideas.
A Competition she Joined for the Experience, not the Trophy
Roshidat revealed that she entered the competition primarily for the experience and the opportunity to express her passion. ‘I came to showcase what I love doing and connect with others who share the same interest,’ she said. Winning, she added, came as a beautiful surprise that validated her efforts and strengthened her confidence as a chef.
Her winning dish was prepared ‘in the best and most standard way macaroni should be cooked.’ Even though she didn’t attempt anything extraordinary or experimental, she focused on maximising the provided Golden Penny ingredients while emphasising taste and presentation. Interestingly, she did not see her win coming, even when a host praised her dish on stage.
A Win with Personal and Professional Impact
For Roshidat, this victory means more than just a title. ‘Personally, it’s a huge confidence boost. Professionally, it opens doors for more opportunities and builds my credibility as a chef,’ she said. With her brand, Roshie’s Kitchen, already gaining recognition on campus, she views this achievement as a stepping stone toward her future ambitions, which include opening a restaurant, expanding into a food brand, and entering more culinary competitions.
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to Golden Penny for providing a platform that empowers young culinary talents, as well as to the judges, her family, friends, and everyone who supported her throughout the competition. ‘This win wouldn’t have been possible without all of you,’ she remarked.