Canada-based Nigerian chef, Zainab Oladipo, is set to put Kamloops, British Columbia, and the entire Nigerian diaspora on the global culinary map as she embarks on a mission to break the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon.
The ambitious chef plans to cook an astounding 15,500 dishes representing 195 countries for 300 consecutive hours, spanning 14 days at 326 Victoria Street, Kamloops, from July 29 to August 12, 2025.
Her bold attempt, according to a statement issued by her management on Thursday, is not just about breaking a record but “a celebration of global cultures, community, and the unifying power of food.”
Oladipo, who has adopted the motto “Feed, Inspire, Give Back”, is using the event as a platform to foster cultural exchange, feed the community, and inspire resilience and service.
The statement added that physical attendees will be served free meals throughout the event, with a menu showcasing cuisines from every corner of the world.
Zainab said, “This is more than just cooking. It’s a movement.
“I want to prove that a woman, an immigrant, a Black Canadian — from right here in Kamloops — can dream big, and achieve something extraordinary”.
The event, which is expected to attract both local and international attention, also calls for community involvement.
Her team has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the cost of ingredients, logistics, and volunteer coordination.
Local businesses and residents have been encouraged to lend support through donations, partnerships, and volunteering.
According to her management, this marks the first time a Nigerian-Canadian chef in Kamloops is pursuing such a feat, aiming to inspire others through her passion for food and culture.
“Her mission represents the spirit of unity and determination that transcends borders. Zainab is not just cooking; she’s creating a legacy, one dish at a time,” the statement read.
Zainab’s cooking marathon is not just about numbers, her management team said, “It’s about community connection, representation, and proving that no dream is too big when fuelled by purpose and heart.”