Pierre Thiam is a celebrated chef, restaurateur, award-winning cookbook author and entrepreneur. Born and raised in Senegal, he is known for his innovative cooking style—modern and eclectic yet rooted in the rich culinary traditions of West Africa. He is the author of three cookbooks: “Yolele! Recipes From the Heart of Senegal,” “Senegal: Modern Senegalese Recipes from the Source to the Bowl,” and most recently, “The Fonio Cookbook.” He is also the founder of Yolélé Foods, which distributes African food products across the U.S. and the Fonio is available in the Milk Street Store. He serves on the board of directors for two global nonprofits, IDEO.or and SOS Sahel. (Photo credit: Sara Costa)