Recently I mentioned that applications for Les Dames d’Escoffier BC Chapter scholarships were open and at the end of April, the recipients of those scholarships were announced. Les Dames members gathered at Culinary Capers Catering for the BC Chapter’s annual Scholarship Reception. “This event is culmination of our volunteer efforts through the previous year” says Chapter President Bonita Jo Magee. “We spend the year raising funds so that we can financially support women who wish to further their culinary careers through taking various culinary, hospitality and beverage programs or courses.” Knowing a great number of the Les Dames members I know they work hard to raise funds through the year but besides the monetary support the Dames offer mentorship and career support while sharing their experiences in the culinary world.
This year the group received a record 48 applicants resulting in 33 recipients for a total value in excess of $24,000. Scholarships are open to any BC woman who is either already in a professional culinary/hospitality career or wishes to pursue further studies in a culinary profession. All scholarships are awarded based on merit, ability, commitment and passion, and may range in value between $300 and $2000 depending on funds available, program requirements and approved applicants. Each application is reviewed and evaluated by the Les Dames’ Scholarship Committee, this year co-chaired by Dames Kathy McAree (Travel with Taste, Victoria) and Chef Taryn Wa (Savoury Chef Foods, Vancouver).
Two types of scholarships were presented – sponsored scholarships to a specific course or educational institution (The Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, Vancouver Pastry Training Centre, Cacao Barry Chocolate Scholarship, Northwest Culinary Academy of Vancouver) and monetary scholarships to assist the recipient to attend the course/institution of her choice.
Money for the scholarships is raised through events such as; Les Dames Summerdine (Aug10, 2016), Les Dames Gala (Sep 23, 2016, this year honouring New York Chapter member and celebrity Chef Lidia Bastianich), Wall of Wine at Vancouver Magazine’s Big Night (February). Proceeds from all these endeavours go to Les Dames BC Scholarship Fund. For more information and tickets visit lesdames.ca