Pastry, Passion and Participation Define GTCO Masterclass Experience

…by Adeleke Olubanwo

At the GTCO Masterclass, chefs Kemi Anazodo and Dera Oluyede delivered a vibrant and immersive baking session that blended technical skill with theatrical flair. Focusing on cinnamon rose and chocolate pastries, the duo created an atmosphere that was as instructive as it was engaging, drawing in a cross section of attendees ranging from children to seasoned food enthusiasts.

The siblings’ natural chemistry and fluid storytelling elevated the demonstration beyond a routine culinary class. As they combined flour, spices, and molten chocolate, anticipation steadily built across the room, with participants visibly captivated long before the pastries emerged from the oven. Their ability to translate complex techniques into an accessible, sensory experience underscored both their expertise and stage presence.

Held as part of the 2026 GTCO Food and Drink Festival, the masterclass attracted a full house, with attendees actively participating in each stage of the baking process. The session emphasised experiential learning, allowing guests not only to observe but also to engage directly with the craft and ultimately sample the finished products.

Children formed a particularly enthusiastic segment of the audience, clustering eagerly around the demonstration area, drawn by the allure of chocolate and the opportunity for hands-on involvement. Their presence injected a palpable sense of excitement and authenticity into the session, reinforcing the festival’s inclusive appeal.

Beyond the immediate appeal of baking, the session also pointed to a broader culinary narrative. Elements of global cuisine highlighted through references to Thai-inspired techniques were thoughtfully integrated with locally familiar ingredients, illustrating the evolving possibilities within contemporary gastronomy. Ingredients such as lemongrass, often associated with herbal infusions, were reimagined in inventive culinary applications, offering attendees fresh perspectives on everyday produce.

This interplay of tradition and innovation continues to define the GTCO Food and Drink Festival, positioning it as more than a showcase of food, but a platform for cultural exchange, education, and creative exploration. Through dynamic interactions between chefs, vendors, and participants, the festival reinforces its role in advancing culinary excellence while fostering cross cultural connections.

In this regard, GTCO’s initiative reflects a broader vision: using food as a unifying language to bridge continents, inspire creativity, and contribute meaningfully to the cultural and economic landscape.