Ida Cham, an accomplished entrepreneur and advocate for Gambian gastronomy, has taken on the role of mentor in the NO WOMAN LEFT BEHIND PROJECT, a commendable initiative by ITTOG (Institute of Travel and Tourism Institute).
Her dedication to mentoring young women and guiding them on the path to entrepreneurship is both inspiring and transformative.
READ: Ida Cham Njai: African Travel 100 Women Winner
In her mentoring role, Ida Cham focuses on imparting invaluable knowledge to young women, teaching them how to initiate and nurture their own businesses. This mentorship is designed to equip these aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills and confidence they need for a prosperous future.
One of the core principles of Ida’s mentorship is centered on promoting Gambian-made products and the rich tapestry of Gambian Gastronomy.
She firmly believes in the sustainability, healthiness, and accessibility of locally produced goods. This commitment aligns perfectly with her role as an advocate for Gambian culture and cuisine.
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Ida Cham embarked on her journey as a woman entrepreneur in 2008 when she established Yabouy Home Cooking, a venture that celebrates and showcases the authentic and unique facets of Gambian tourism. Through this venture, she has created a niche that resonates with tourists and locals alike, leaving an indelible mark on their memories.
Preserving and promoting her culture is of paramount importance to Ida. Her dedication led to her collaboration with the Gambia Tourism Board in 2013 to provide training programs on Gambian cooking to community-based tourism businesses in The Gambia. This endeavor furthered her mission to promote Gambian culinary culture through sustainable tourism.
Ida Cham’s unwavering determination and exceptional contributions have earned her numerous accolades and recognitions. She was honored as the winner of the 2017 Africa Travel 100 award and emerged victorious in the 2018 AKWAABA Jollof Rice Chef Competition held in Nigeria.
The Institute of Travel and Tourism Institute (ITTOG) acknowledged her significant role in promoting sustainable tourism through culinary art, granting her a Certificate of Recognition.
In 2019, Ida received the “Most Uniquely Gambian” award from the Gambia Chamber of Commerce (GCCI), further underscoring her commitment to showcasing the essence of her culture. Her influence extends beyond national borders, as evidenced by her appearances in prestigious international media outlets, including SABC TV, Canal Plus, RTL Holland, and the renowned CNN Inside Africa.
Ida Cham’s achievements are not confined to her entrepreneurial pursuits. She was honored with the Global Exemplary IPAN award in December 2021 for her outstanding accomplishments and unwavering dedication, which have the potential to impact lives. Demonstrating her commitment to nurturing the next generation, Ida initiated a project in May 2022 aimed at imparting cultural and gastronomic knowledge to youth.
Looking ahead to the 2023/2024 tourist season, Ida Cham’s Yabouy Home Cooking is set to expand into a new environment in Tujareng, offering a village concept with exciting new activities. Her remarkable journey continues to inspire and empower individuals while preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of The Gambia.
