In the culinary landscape of British Columbia, a remarkable force is at play - Les Dames D’Escoffier International, a non-profit organization comprised of influential female leaders in hospitality, food and beverage sectors.
The British Columbia chapter, in particular, stands out as a vibrant and growing community, boasting 76 members dedicated to inspiring, advancing and supporting women in their communities and nurturing the next generation of female leaders.
“It’s women helping women in the hospitality industry,” notes Dame Lesley Stav, a board member and Vancouver Island liaison for the provincial chapter.
The core mission of Les Dames D’Escoffier revolves around fundraising and philanthropy. Stav explains through a myriad of events and activities held throughout the year, the B.C. chapter has successfully awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships.
The financial support is directed towards women in the hospitality, food, and beverage sectors, with a keen focus on fostering the growth of the next generation of female leaders.
“The scholarships are morphing into a reflection of what the industry is becoming - you can have a background in food marketing, broadcasting, food blogging and more. It’s not only giving back, but we offer support as well.”
The B.C. Chapter recognizes the importance of education in shaping the future of the culinary industry. Educational opportunities are provided through events, support for programs organized by other entities and by fostering connections that facilitate mentorship.
Locally, Dames Gaetane Palardy and Dawn Schultz embody the spirit of the chapter by advocating for increased female participation, a stronger presence and equitable conditions within the hospitality, food and beverage sectors.
Within the Comox Valley, a number of Comox Valley residents have received scholarships through the organization: Sharon Janzen of Alderlane Bakery, Laura Carbonell of Wayward Distillery, Yolanda MacLaren of Custom Gourmet Catering and Jessica Mann, a culinary arts teacher with School District 71 (Comox Valley).
“I was just flabbergasted when I got the scholarship,” says Janzen, who applied for a scholarship for a course in France through Vancouver Island University’s baking program.
She adds the once-in-a-lifetime training was “totally life-giving” and helped her grow her passion particularly for sourdough.
“Les Dames paid for half of my trip and I felt part of that community … there is incredible support.”
Beyond the province, Les Dames D’Escoffier International has 44 chapters and 2,400 members across Canada, U.S., Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy. In 2021 alone, these chapters raised and donated $525,000 to community non-profits and philanthropic organizations.
The organization draws inspiration from Auguste Escoffier, known as “The Chef of Kings” and “The King of Chefs,” whose innovative culinary philosophy and philanthropic deeds continue to inspire culinary professionals today.
Founded in 1976 by Carol Brock, Les Dames D’Escoffier was created with the goal of raising the image and presence of women in food, wine, and hospitality industries, following the example set by the Boston group Les Dames des Amis d’Escoffier. For more information on the B.C. Chapter, visit LesDames.ca.
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