Segun Ramoni Olanipekun (Chef Shegzy), is a young man from Ogun State who is the founder and CEO of Shegzy Food Cafe and Bites Wumba, Abuja. The young chef chose this path instead of Philosophy which he read at the Olabisi Onabanjo University. In this interview, the member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and undergraduate law student at the National Open University (NOUN), speaks of his love for culinary services.
How did you learn your culinary skills?
I have passion for cooking early enough and then enrolled in a catering school, SADEK Catering School in Abeokuta, Ogun State. There, I learnt more about private home management and the hospitality industry. I also upgraded my skills using online internet resources and I am working to get more international training in the hospitality industry.
Since then, I started my own catering business, I have trained over 100 youths on culinary skills for both local and international standards.
What made you take this career path?
Cooking or baking has been a passion to me which I utilized as an option B when the white collar or administrative job was not forthcoming after my first degree. And since I was practising as a professional chef during my undergraduate days, I just continued.
How did you raise funds to start your business?
It’s not easy for a beginner. The little fund was from my monthly allowance from my parents during my school days. So, I started with the supply of doughnuts within the university premises at Ago-Iwoye in Ogun State.
Some people think being a chef is odd for a man, especially for graduates, what do you think?
It could be odd for some people but when you have passion for a certain skill, you will not mind the oddness. The fulfilment you get when you see personality consuming and enjoying your work makes you satisfied.
In running this business, what challenges do you encounter?
We have quite a number of them. The most challenging ones are unstable electricity, multiple taxes from the government, bad roads and the high cost of raw materials. They just make the business challenge, but we always find a way around them.
How’s the patronage for the business?
I am always occupied with daily production of snacks and work on food and cake orders, I also get involved in home services within Abuja and the environs and also take charge of events. I think it’s just fine.
What’s the secret of running such a successful business?
Well, I will say that consistency is the secret.
What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs for this business?
Once again, consistency, good customer relations and being truthful in all your dealings. It might take a while to get to the top but your truthfulness keeps you at the top.
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