Yes Shef’s Ontario debut offered a powerful platform to spotlight the women shaping Ontario's culinary future. Taking place on March 9 during RC Show 2026 as part of Women in Hospitality Day, the event brought together some of Ontario’s most influential women in the industry at The International Centre’s Orion Ballroom.
The evening featured 20 food and beverage stations powered by women, creating a one-of-a-kind tasting experience that put chefs front and centre - offering guests direct access to their stories, perspectives, and the dishes shaping Canada’s culinary scene, alongside premium wine and cocktails from leaders in the women-led beverage space.
Founded as a mentorship-driven platform, Yes Shef connects emerging talent with established industry leaders through an immersive experience rooted in mentorship, storytelling, and exceptional food, which the event kicks off. The initiative is led by Joanna Jagger, founder and Executive Director of WORTH Association, the force behind Yes Shef. With a background spanning leadership roles at top hospitality brands including Marriott International and Shangri-La Hotels, Joanna continues to play a key role in creating meaningful opportunities and pathways for women across the industry.
The event featured a dynamic lineup of chefs, restaurateurs, and beverage professionals from across Canada - including Alida Solomon (Tutti Matti), Charlotte Langley (Nice Cans), Debbie Shing (Quvé), Divya Aggarwal (Butter and Batter), Donna Dooher (Mildred’s Temple Kitchen), Erica Karbelnik (Karbs Catering & Private Events), Eva Chin (Yan Dining Room), Evelyn Chick (Evelyn Chick Projects), Jessica Côté (KWE Cocktails), Laurel Prentice (Moxies), Lesley Gibson (Gibson Family Group), Lorie Leung (Charton Hobbs), Maria Jiminez (The Keg), Marissa Leon-John (Elle J’s), Melissa Lubert (De’Longhi), Miyoung Yoo and Swe Swe Oo (Fairmont Royal York), Nicole Hynes (Sand & Pearl), Suman Ali Sayed (House of Khaleej), Tawnya Brant (Yawkēn Foods), Trudy Metcalfe-Coe (Inuit Chef & Educator), and Victoria Morrison (The Keg) - each presenting a signature dish or drink alongside their mentee.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of scholarships, with each Yes Shef mentee receiving $1,000 to support their continued growth in the industry. The event also recognized two standout dishes: Chef Eva Chin was awarded Best Dish for her Chicken and Mushroom Congee, while Chef Charlotte Langley received the People’s Choice Award for her Atlantic Canadian Lobster Rolls.