For Evette Quoibia, cooking has always been more than a chore but it has been a calling. And with the support of the Sarina Russo Entrepreneurs Self-Employment Assistance Program, she turned that passion into a world-record-breaking achievement.
In February 2024, Evette completed a 140-hour, 11-minute, and 11-second cooking marathon, earning her the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking session by an individual. But her journey to this milestone was shaped by resilience, community, and the guidance of her Business Coach, John Nguyen.
“I’ve always loved cooking. Since I was probably the age of eight, while other people were playing with toys, I was cooking with little cups,” Evette shared. As a migrant and single mother, she faced many challenges—but she never stopped dreaming big. “I always dreamed of being great, or doing something out of the ordinary. Then I found out about the Guinness World Records longest cooking marathon,” she said.
Through the Self-Employment Assistance Program, Evette received tailored coaching and business support. John Nguyen helped her refine her business strategy, prepare for the record attempt, and stay focused on her goals.
Her cooking marathon featured dishes inspired by her Liberian heritage, including jollof rice, cassava leaf stew, and pepper soup, as well as flavours from Nigerian, Asian, and Australian cuisines. For six days, she kept her kitchen open to the public, sharing food and joy with her Melbourne community.
Despite the physical and mental toll, Evette persevered. “There were times where it was really stressful, and there were times where I really enjoyed it… I gained my energy from the people cheering me on,” she said.
Her story is a powerful example of what is possible when passion meets support. “I wanted my life to be an example that there’s a place for every single one of us to do big things and achieve great things,” Evette said.
Want help to manage and grow your small business?
Sarina Russo offers accredited small business training that can help turn your business idea into reality. In conjunction with the Self-Employment Assistance program, Sarina Russo Entrepreneurs enables Australians to set up and run their own small business. The Self-Employment Assistance is 100% Australian Government funded.
Sarina Russo Entrepreneurs supports candidates as they complete Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business. During this, candidates create a comprehensive business plan and a two-year financial cash forecast. SRE Trainers provide meaningful mentoring for the first twelve months.
Eligible candidates receive the training and support to create a viable business plan, in addition to obtaining a Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business.
For more information, please click here.
