Culinary Scholarship Opens Doors for BC Women in Hospitality

This year, thirty women from British Columbia received scholarships totaling $24,000 from Les Dames d’Escoffier BC, aimed at advancing their careers in the province’s hospitality and food sectors. Among the recipients is River Wilson from Prince George, who was awarded a scholarship co-sponsored by Les Dames d’Escoffier BC and Two Rivers Specialty Meats.

Experiential Learning in Sustainable Practices

The scholarship provides Wilson with a unique opportunity to delve into humane animal treatment and the sourcing of local, sustainable ingredients. Her two-day experience includes a visit to a BC farm, where she will learn about agricultural practices, followed by a trip to North Vancouver featuring farm tours, butchery training, and tastings.

Wilson’s journey into the culinary world was inspired by her mentor, Chef Mandy Newcomb. An award-winning Red Seal chef and a graduate of CNC, Newcomb has served as an instructor at the college for over a decade. She has extensive experience managing restaurants and overseeing culinary programs, benefiting students like Wilson.

Newcomb has recently been recognized by Les Dames d’Escoffier for her work mentoring young women in the culinary arts and was inducted into the prestigious organization, which comprises over 2,400 female leaders in the global hospitality sector.

Personal Journey and Career Aspirations

Wilson’s culinary passion began in childhood, often spending time baking with her grandmother. “I would bake sugar cookies and ginger snaps with my grandma,” she recalled. “She worked so hard and was my inspiration.” This early exposure to cooking laid the foundation for her current career path.

Despite her initial enrollment in an art program at CNC, Wilson faced personal challenges that led her to reevaluate her career goals. After the tragic passing of her father in 2021, she took time to reflect before pursuing her culinary interests. “I wanted to learn about the science behind cooking and different cuisines,” she said.

Now in Level 2 of her culinary training, Wilson is working at Betulla Burning, where she started as a dishwasher and has progressed to cooking. “It’s been very challenging but also very rewarding,” she noted. “I love it here.” Wilson aims to further her culinary skills and plans a trip to Mexico to explore Oaxacan cuisine, which she finds inspiring.

Newcomb, aware of the scholarship’s potential impact on Wilson, expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunities it presents. During her own scholarship experience, Newcomb formed valuable connections with other chefs and explored various farms and culinary practices. “I still call upon them for mentor chats with the students,” she shared.

As a member of the Les Dames d’Escoffier scholarship committee, Newcomb is committed to supporting emerging culinary talent. “It warms my heart to connect with recipients and make a huge difference in their lives,” she said. “Having a cheering crowd rooting for you during your life and work challenges is always beneficial.” This year’s scholarship allocation is particularly special for her as it includes the Tina Fineze scholarship, awarded to Wilson, a former student.

Newcomb sees great potential in Wilson, describing her as “very driven and worldly at such a young age.” She commended Wilson’s passion for local and sustainable food, foraging, and special dietary needs, noting that these attributes remind her of her own journey.

The support from Les Dames d’Escoffier BC and mentors like Newcomb not only enhances Wilson’s culinary education but also fosters a new generation of female leaders in the hospitality industry. As Wilson continues her training and prepares for her future adventures, she represents the growing community of women making significant strides in culinary arts across British Columbia.