By Christy Anyanwu
Hilda Effiong Bassey is a multi-talented actress, TV producer, host, and foodprenuer.
Hilda hails from Akwa Ibom State revered for its rich culture, cuisines, dressing, and folklore.
She has starred in a couple of movies, playing the supporting lead role in Dreamchaser, which was nominated for best film in the MultiChoice factory for the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA). 
She also featured in prominent movies and soap operas, including Sideways, Flatmates, A Walk on the Water, and Mr. & Mrs. Robert.
In 2020, sharing the stage with Tobi Bakare, former Big Brother Naija housemate, Hilda co-hosted Y’ello Star, a music reality project by MTN to discover, nurture, expose, and launch music talents in young Nigerians.
In all of these, Hilda’s passion is in the kitchen, cooking.
In this interview, she opened up about a lot of things that make her tick in the kitchen and more.
At what point did you gain popularity in the entertainment industry?
I cannot pinpoint a specific point in time when I gained popularity, as it is not about being popular. All I know is my progress has been a gradual process that involves hard work, dedication, consistency and perseverance. My journey to success as a chef and entrepreneur involves years of honing my skills in the kitchen, building a network of contacts in the industry, and developing a personal brand that resonates with my audience. I may have gotten various accomplishments and milestones along the way, such as opening my own restaurant or catering business, winning awards or recognition for my culinary skills, or appearing on TV shows or in magazines. All of these have been because I have consistently showed up even on days I didn’t feel like.
How do you handle stardom?
I’m not sure I would call it stardom, I’ll instead use the word impact and influence. For me, it is crucial to stay grounded and focused on my goals. This involves surrounding myself with a supportive network of friends and family, staying true to my values and belief, and seeking out professional support when needed.
What are the challenges you have encountered?
Every entrepreneur faces unique challenges on their journey to success. Some of the challenges I have encountered include navigating a competitive and constantly evolving industry, managing the demands of running a business while also pursuing my passion for cooking, and finding ways to stand out and differentiate myself in a crowded marketplace. Other challenges include managing finances and cash flow, building a strong team, and adapting to changing customer preferences and tastes. I always see challenges as an opportunity for growth and learning, as it is important to stay adaptable.
Tell us your journey into cooking?
My cooking talent was further showcased in 2021 when I emerged winner of the Jollof Faceoff Competition challenge in Ghana, going home with a $5,000 winning prize. At a certain point, it was obvious to me that I wanted to specialize in cooking because I enjoyed every experience I had preparing delicacies. The joy of watching people eat meals I prepared with classification: Confidential positive comments was encouraging. So, I set out to start ‘My Food by Hilda’ from a tiny apartment in Ikate, where I made home meals and delivered them to people. The increase in requests validated our capacity. At the time, I had less than a handful of people on my team, but we went the extra mile to ensure we met customer demands. Today, I run ‘My Food by Hilda,’ an excellent restaurant and food delivery service in the heart of Lekki, Lagos. But it was not all smooth from the beginning. The sprawling restaurant finally opened in June 2022, resulting from the resilience of a bold and tenacious woman determined to keep her vision. Before then, I operated ‘My Food by Hilda’ from a tiny apartment for the first two years while pushing most of my sales through delivery.
Could you tell us a bit about life growing up?
Growing up was delightful. My story reveals that one can always get steps closer to achieving their dreams with utter purpose. At an early age, I was self-aware of my capabilities and the resolve to make an impact. More importantly, there was the instinct for me to embark on an entrepreneurial journey, although I was unsure where to start.
Interestingly, my love for cooking was all I needed to get going. My cooking prowess is a skill that runs through the family. After spending hours with my mother, who also owns a restaurant, preparing various recipes, my brother and I later started a food business called ‘My Food.’ That was during my days as a student of Sociology at Madonna University, Okija. From being a manager at Breaking King, a breakfast company, I learned further about the requirements of operating a restaurant. Armed with the vision to run a restaurant and food delivery, I also spend time on set as an actress or presenter. Consistency is one of the factors that has kept me going.
Tell us about your cook shows on television and as a food teacher ?
I nurtured my sojourn in cooking and built the insight to be a foodpreneur by being a TV favourite on cook shows. From the ‘In my Kitchen’ segment on Rave TV’s flagship breakfast show, Morning Rave, to being the host of ‘Dine on A Budget’ on Pop Central TV, I showcased various recipes to the audience’s delight. I also sets the pace by preparing youngsters interested in culinary. I teach culinary lessons online and physically; the results have been worthwhile.
My first class was held in February 2021 with 30 students on zoom. From the success record of the teachings, I was inspired and encouraged to do more, especially as more requests kept coming from people willing to join the classes. My latest class has 1,989 students, and I am teaching 120 recipes, the highest number to be taught in an online cooking class. I further encourage and empower my students to participate actively and practice the recipes by rewarding the top students with incentives. The best student from my last class was awarded N1 million to support their business. Others got phones and utensils such as Microwaves, Ovens, Blenders, Pots, and toasters. My dedication to providing well-prepared meals extends beyond my role as a food entrepreneur.
What are your plans for the next few years?
They say food tastes better when you eat together, and I’m encouraging that atmosphere with plans to launch more restaurants across Lagos and Nigeria. One step at a time. I aspire to be a leading figure in relishing our favourite delicacies beyond the shores of Nigeria. Even now, I am not relenting; I am preparing to put Nigeria on the map to break the record for the longest cooking marathon. Lata Tondon currently holds this record in 87 hours, 45 minutes cooking marathon held in India. Tagged the ‘Hilda Baci Cookathon,’ I intend to break the record in a four-day attempt in Lagos, Nigeria. ‘‘The Cookathon has been in plans for the past five years. I have been preparing physically and mentally. Now, is the time to go for this huge attempt. With the support of Nigerians and people worldwide, I believe this is achievable.
What advice do you have for younger women who want to excel in their career?
To younger women who want to excel in their career, my advice is to be confident, passionate, believe in yourself and your abilities, and don›t be afraid to take risks and try new things. Build a strong personal brand, and seek out opportunities to learn and grow. Be persistent and persevere even in the face of challenges or setbacks. Surrounding yourself with supportive people and seeking out mentorship and guidance can also be key to success. I would encourage young women to stay true to themselves and to their values, and to remember that success is a journey, not a destination. Finally, always remember to empower others and lift up those around you.