Vancouver, B.C. (September 29, 2025): Yes Shef, a sparkling evening of incredible food, inspiring people and purpose, returns to the Fairmont Pacific Rim on Wednesday, Nov. 18. Presented by WORTH Association, the sixth annual Yes Shef promises an evening of kinetic conversation and tantalizing food and drink from some of B.C.’s top women chefs, women-led distilleries, breweries and wineries from across the province.
“Yes Shef is our flagship event, and we look forward to it every year,” says founder and executive director of WORTH Association, Joanna Jagger. “It brings together top women chefs, sommeliers, brewers and mixologists with emerging culinary talent for a vibrant walk-around tasting experience. As well as 15 curated culinary stations, premium drinks and live entertainment, it’s a showcase for women shaping the future of hospitality. Plus every ticket sold supports mentorship and creates opportunities for the next generation of culinary leaders.”
A launchpad for professional growth, Yes Shef supports training and mentorship for 15 women studying culinary arts from Vancouver Community College (VCC). Through the WORTH Association mentorship program, these emerging chefs receive a range of opportunities, including hands-on coaching, weekly meetings, or on-site experience at leading restaurants.
“More than a culinary event, Yes Shef is a movement. Through mentorship, community and giving back, it elevates women in hospitality while creating opportunities for the next generation of industry leaders. A lot has changed since I started my own career, but there’s still more to do to open doors for the next generation in culinary.”
With more still to be announced, current confirmed participating chefs include:
- Chefs of Fairmont Hotels
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- Suzannah Yeung & Kate Remegio, Fairmont Pacific Rim
- Annie & Ayu, Fairmont Vancouver Airport
- Isabel Chung, Fairmont Empress
- Selivia (Yingzhen) Hu, Fairmont Waterfront
- Berenice Balbuena, Tacofino
- Calia Pacle, Selene Aegean Bistro
- Dawn Doucette, Douce Diner
- Eleanor Waterfall, Cadeaux Bakery
- Malindi Taylor, Fanny Bay Oysters
- Marissa Gonzales, Hawksworth
- Shira Blustein, Lila Restaurant
- Minette Lotz, The Restaurant at Poplar Grove
- Olya Karpova, Atlas Steak + Fish
- Tamam Qanembou-Zobaid, Tamam: Fine Palestinian Cuisine
- Vanessa Lin, Wild Blue Restaurant
- Yuki Aida, Sushi MAHANA
- Roop Toor, Moxies
- Cheryl Chang, Nourish Kitchen
Beverage Makers:
- Sheereen Price & Gabrielle Mustapich, 1983 Espresso Martinis
- Valli Manickam, Plenty Real Brews
- Oliver Osoyoos Winery Association
More information on this year’s lineup can be found at www.yesshef.com/chefs.
Along with delicious bites and craft beverages, guests will enjoy live music and the opportunity to participate in an online auction and raffle. All proceeds will go to funding scholarships, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities for women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality
EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.
Location: Fairmont Pacific Rim
TICKETS yesshef.com/events/vancouver-2026:
• Early Bird by Oct. 8, 2026: $185 plus GST (limited quantity of 100 available)
• General Admission: $220 plus GST