Ghanaian culinary sensation Abena Amoakoaa Sintim-Aboagye, popularly known as Chef Abbys, has been named in TIME Magazine’s prestigious TIME100 Most Influential Creators list for 2025.
Chef Abbys, who has gained widespread recognition through her viral TikTok cooking videos, was recognized for her unique storytelling style and dedication to promoting African culinary heritage.
With over 1.4 million followers on TikTok, she describes herself as an “African Food Tourist,” showcasing recipes that reflect the soul, struggles, and values of African culture.
According to TIME staff writer Megan McCluskey, who profiled her in the listing, Chef Abbys earned her spot after being featured on TikTok’s Global Discover List earlier this year.
Her standout content includes cooking iconic dishes such as Ghanaian jollof rice, babenda from Burkina Faso, and amiwo from Benin.
“When you cook a country’s traditional food, you learn its values, its struggles, and its soul,” she told TIME. “Every ingredient has meaning. Every method carries memory. It teaches you respect for the people and the heritage behind the dish.”
TIME’s 2025 list celebrates creators across various fields who are redefining influence in the digital age. Alongside Chef Abbys, this year’s honorees include Kai Cenat, Mr. Beast, Khabby Lame —trailblazers who are using their platforms to inspire, educate, and innovate.
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