WOMEN IN FOOD 2025

On being a black woman...

Ultimately it’s about self-love, valuing one’s unique beauty, celebrating and taking pride in the diversity and richness of our culture, history and traditions while honouring the struggles and triumphs of those who came before.”

Simisola Idowu-Ajibodu also known as Chef SiA is an established chef based in London, England and Lagos, Nigeria. The Nigerian-British chef’s mantra, “To Cook Is To Be Happy,” captures her passion for creativity and fusion of great food, showcasing the deep flavours of Nigerian cuisine using innovative culinary techniques. From curating flavours and exploring ingredients, her style of cooking recreates and reimagines the presentation of Nigerian dishes.

Chef Sia was born and raised in Nigeria till she was 12 years-old and shipped off to the UK for boarding school. Her favourite class, Food Technology, was where she knew she wanted to be a chef. After several degrees including International Marketing (MSc) and the 9 – 5 life, in 2014 Chef SiA decided to follow her ultimate passion to be a Chef and enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu, London. Following her education she secured a job at five star luxury hotel The Dorchester, London and most recently at Michelin starred Ikoyi London.

Chef SiA currently hosts a supper club – Olòrì Ebì which speaks into the culinary landscape of her culture and upbringing. Fusing the bridge between Nigerian flavours and British produce, Chef SiA always aims to celebrate food with respect and elegance.

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