In line with the global anthem of accelerating action, the Chef Giggles’ annual culinary scholarship for women has announced a call for applications for this year’s edition.

The scholarship would be presented as a free culinary education programme, worth a million Naira, for two selected individuals, at the Giggles Culinary Academy, in Lagos.

According to the organizers, interested applicants are encouraged to apply by March 14 latest, via Instagram using the hashtag #GigglesCulinaryScholarship2025, with more entry details available via their official channel at Gigglesculinaryplace.

“I understand the power of education in shaping careers and opening doors in the culinary industry. This scholarship is driven by a commitment to providing talented, aspiring female food enthusiasts with access to quality culinary education,” Chef Giggles, Founder of Giggles Culinary Academy, said.

According to Chef Giggles, who is also the immediate past President of the Culinary Arts Practitioners Association of Nigeria (CAPA Nigeria), applicants would be reviewed by a select jury comprising seasoned chefs across West Africa, before two winners are selected.

According to her, the scholarship has impacted several emerging female chefs in the Nigerian culinary business, providing over N10 million in education, mentorship and equipment support since inception in 2023.

“Women have always played a crucial role in shaping food culture, yet professional kitchens and leadership roles in the industry have not always been very accessible to them. Through this scholarship, I hope to support and empower women who are passionate about food but may not have had the opportunity to pursue professional training due to financial or societal barriers; recipients will gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and industry insights that will prepare them for leadership roles in kitchens, restaurants, food entrepreneurship, and beyond,” she said.

Following her work in the culinary arts scene in Nigeria, especially in education and regulation, Chef Giggles is part of a revolution of young women stirring development within the world of African cuisine. “My vision as Chef Giggles has always been the same: that one day, Nigerian and West African cuisine will be studied and included in culinary school curricula around the world.

“Additionally, I envision a culinary education system in Nigeria that does not produce mediocre chefs but instead upholds internationally recognized standards while embracing our own food culture, flavors, cooking methods, and techniques. By integrating a globally competitive curriculum with a strong foundation in our rich culinary heritage, we ensure that chefs trained here are not only on par with their global counterparts but also deeply knowledgeable in both foreign and indigenous cuisines. This approach equips them with the skills to excel in any kitchen worldwide while preserving and innovating upon our traditional culinary identity,” she said.