Meet The Male Baker Dominating His Own World

According to Duncan Smith, luck is great, but most of life is hard work.

Today, we bring excerpts from the inspiring interview of a resilient and creative baker. Please sit back, grab your popcorn and enjoy.

BACKGROUND

My name is Ugese Oryiman Emmanuel, born into the family of Hon. Thomas Ugese of Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State.

EDUCATION

I had my Primary and Secondary education at Benue State University Staff School and Wantor Model College, Adikpo respectively. I proceeded to University of Mkar-Mkar, where I graduated with a bachelor's degree in Food Science and Technology. This has kept my passion intact and the zeal to do more has always been my desire.

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR JOURNEY?

Well for me, I really loved cakes right from time because, I remember while growing up I always got a cake on every birthday whether I was celebrating or not. Fast forward to my days in secondary education, where I started making garri cakes (LOL). And with YouTube as my best friend I started learning recipes, procedures and all, with the sole purpose of just learning to bake and eat. But then again with time I kept on getting compliments and all from my very supportive family and friends. So, I decided to monetize the craft in my 100 level while still in school.

WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU ENCOUNTER IN YOUR JOURNEY SO FAR?

Ups and downs must be experienced in life generally, let alone a career or business venture. Well, most times, finances to meet a desired dream, you know. Start-up was not easy up till growth and now expansion. Competition is part of the business and I have embraced it, with a zealous mind set.

Man at work...

DO YOU FEEL DIFFERENT AS A MALE BAKER?

No I don’t feel different in any way, doing what you love and what you are good at is all that really matters, and as long as I’m getting paid, we move. Besides some of the most renowned bakers in the world are men, the likes of buddy valastro of Carlos bakery, Duff Goldman; I grew up watching them and other amazing male bakers that have been putting themselves and their work out there. Baking has passed being a feminine kind of thing. My course of study is always open to all. Just to follow a positive path is all that matters.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR SUCESS SO FAR?

Family. My family has been one of my greatest strengths, the love and support has been super amazing right from day one, and that alone keeps me going.

WHAT WORD(S) DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS?

My advice for up and coming entrepreneurs is that they should always remember that it’s not a competition. The fight is against poverty not your fellow entrepreneurs, and the sky is big enough for everybody to fly, be kind, be humble, be open minded and ready to learn.

And never give up, las las na who give up na em f*ck up.