SL Rokel Commercial Bank and Partners Unite for Largest Cooking Competition in SL

By: Aruna Dumbuya

On October 12, 2024, Rokel Commercial Bank, in collaboration with Fanta’s Kitchen Catering Services and Afrigas, successfully organized the largest cooking competition ever facilitated by an indigenous bank at the Family Kingdom Complex in Aberdeen, Freetown. This landmark event aimed to empower young culinary talents and reinforce the bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Rokel Commercial Bank, known for its innovative initiatives and commitment to aligning with regulatory standards, continues to lead the way in the banking sector of Sierra Leone. The cooking competition, themed “Impacting Young Entrepreneurs,” was part of the bank’s broader celebration of its 25th anniversary, encapsulating the ethos of “Taking Banking to the Grassroots.”

Fanta’s Kitchen, one of Sierra Leone’s premier catering services, hosted the event. Led by CEO Fanta Fofanah, the organization has gained national and international acclaim for its culinary expertise and representation of Sierra Leone in various cooking competitions. Fofanah, a well-respected entrepreneur in the catering industry, emphasized the importance of supporting local talent and fostering an environment where young chefs can thrive.

The competition attracted contestants from various vocational institutes, including the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), Useful Hands Vocational Institute, Women’s Vocational Center (Ormamy), Winning Center, and Murialdo. Other institutions such as REAPS and CEFORD Vocational Center also participated as spectators, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the event.

The panel of esteemed judges included Naasu Fofanah, CEO of Susue Pemehun, Vivian Samuel Coker, CEO of Sam’s Brother’s Investment, and Mrs. Hawa Alpha of Prosgil Delicious. Their expertise added a level of prestige to the competition, further motivating the participants to showcase their culinary skills.

The competition culminated with Useful Hands Vocational Institute from Wellington emerging as the champion, awarded a cash prize of Le10,000. The second-place honor went to the Winning Center Vocational Institute from Murray Town, which received Le7,000, while the third-place winner took home Le5,000. Contestants finishing in fourth and fifth places were awarded consolation prizes, ensuring that all participants were recognized for their efforts.

At the event’s conclusion, Dr. Ekundayo W. Gilpin, Managing Director & CEO of Rokel Commercial Bank, congratulated the participants and expressed gratitude to the bank’s staff, the judges, and representatives from partnering institutions for their contributions to the competition’s success. He acknowledged the collaboration with Fanta’s Kitchen and Afrigas, highlighting their vital roles in making the event possible.

Dr. Gilpin underscored that the cooking competition not only showcased the talents of young entrepreneurs but also aligned with Rokel Commercial Bank’s mission to empower the next generation. “This initiative provides a platform for these young chefs to demonstrate their skills and prepare for the competitive landscape of local and international business,” he stated.

He emphasized the importance of equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing market, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to fostering innovation and creativity within the community.

Rokel Commercial Bank has a history of impactful partnerships, including collaborations with Equity and I&M Banks in Rwanda for cross-border transactions, EST Applied Intelligence for cybersecurity, and various local initiatives aimed at enhancing education and business opportunities. This cooking competition is a testament to the bank’s dedication to supporting young talent and promoting sustainable development in Sierra Leone.

As Rokel Commercial Bank continues to set benchmarks in the banking industry, initiatives like this cooking competition highlight its ongoing commitment to community engagement, youth empowerment, and the promotion of entrepreneurship. With a focus on nurturing local talent, the bank aims to create a vibrant ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs, ensuring a brighter future for Sierra Leone’s economy.