Ekiti-based chef, Damilola Adeparusi, popularly known as Chef Dammy, has revealed that the aftermath of her much-publicized cook-a-thon left her emotionally broken.
Chef Dammy, who shot to national fame in 2023 after embarking on a cooking marathon in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record, said the backlash and criticisms she received from Nigerians took a heavy toll on her mental health. While the cook-a-thon initially earned her massive attention and support, the months that followed were filled with mixed reactions, with some questioning her motives and others trolling her online.
Speaking in a recent interview, Dammy explained that although she expected some form of criticism, the intensity and negativity she faced were overwhelming. According to her, many failed to understand the sacrifices and pressure that went into the challenge. “The reactions I got after the cook-a-thon broke me,” she admitted, noting that the experience left her feeling discouraged and misunderstood.
She further disclosed that the entire episode affected not only her mental well-being but also her personal life and career decisions. However, Chef Dammy stressed that despite the emotional strain, she remains grateful for the experience, as it shaped her resilience and gave her wider recognition.
Supporters of the young chef have continued to rally around her, with many encouraging her to see the challenge as a stepping stone rather than a setback. Industry stakeholders have also urged Nigerians to show more empathy to young talents daring to dream big.
Chef Dammy’s revelation comes as a reminder of the emotional weight public figures and record seekers often carry behind the spotlight, especially in the age of social media where scrutiny can be both intense and unforgiving.
More than news- Its Icegate