Meet Founding Member, Caren McSherry!
Caren McSherry is the Founder and owner of The Gourmet Warehouse, the largest gourmet emporium in western Canada; President and owner of Continental Importers; Founder of Cote d’Azur branded foods; cookbook author, and; regular guest on CKNW/98 radio and Global TV weekend news.
Why did you establish the BC Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier (LDBC)?
Many years ago and for a long period of time, Pam Williams and I were very involved in the International Association of Cooking Professionals, but as an American based organization we believed it had no bearing on Canada. When I met Julia Child, a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) during a conference in Vancouver, she urged me to start a local chapter of LDEI. Pam Williams and I thought it was a great idea to establish the first Canadian chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier so we brainstormed with Barb Watts on inviting the required number of members and the BC Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier was officially established in 1992.
What do you believe the LDBC has accomplished to date?
The LDBC has accomplished so much such as providing important networking opportunities for BC’s women driven by their passion and goals. Most importantly, we continue to provide scholarships that help advance women in their careers.
Why should women apply to become a member?
Everyone will have their own specific reason for becoming a member, but I believe that we must all be passionate about the industry we involve ourselves in. I encourage women to apply, and actively participate to support and further advance BC’s hospitality, food and beverage industries!