Empowering female talent in hospitality: London events for International Women’s Day 2025

As International Women’s Day approaches, two of the most influential names in food and hospitality, are leading the charge in celebrating female talent, empowerment, and progress in the industry.

Les Dames d’Escoffier London, the charitable organisation dedicated to supporting women leaders in food, drink, and hospitality, has unveiled an exceptional panel for its upcoming event.

Curated by pioneering chef and author Sally Abé, a panel event will bring together some of the industry's most inspiring female figures for an evening of discussion, networking, and empowerment.

Taking place on March 4 at 58 and CO, the panel will feature:

Sabrina Gidda – Chef, author, and former Great British Menu contestant.

Michelle Trusselle – Michelin-trained chef and head of culinary at Aramark UK and Global Offshore.

April Lily Partridge – 2023 Roux Scholar and award-winning development chef at Opus Provisions.

Sheila Dillon (BBC Radio 4’s The Food Programme), will moderate the discussion.

Le Cordon Bleu London is also honouring International Women’s Day 2025 with a week of immersive events, celebrating female excellence in food and hospitality.

To mark the occasion, Le Cordon Bleu alumni Namita Gambhir and Teresa Andras have crafted the Péché Mignon, a limited-edition dessert available at Café Le Cordon Bleu and CORD Café from March 3-7. It features delicate layers of lychee, raspberry, and rose, elegantly finished with a miniature chocolate chef’s hat, a nod to the artistry and innovation of Le Cordon Bleu’s talented female graduates.

Aspiring pâtissiers and dessert enthusiasts are invited to participate in an exclusive workshop on March 4 led by Julie Walsh, Le Cordon Bleu London’s head pâtisserie chef. Attendees will have the opportunity to create Baba Sabrina, a jasmine-infused yeast cake inspired by the 1954 classic film Sabrina. The hands-on experience offers an unparalleled insight into the techniques and creativity behind world-class pâtisserie.

At the CORD restaurant in London on March 7, an all-female team of acclaimed chefs including Justine Bordet and Elien Verhulst will create an exclusive menu celebrating innovation and craftsmanship in dining.

The meal will be complemented by an optional wine pairing,

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meticulously selected by Jiachen Lu, CORD’s award-winning head sommelier and a distinguished Le Cordon Bleu alumni.

The first collaborative group of female wine importers, CollectEve will also be holding their second edition of its press and trade tasting on March 24 at 67 Pall Mall, London.

The event will showcase the diversity, innovation, and collaborative spirit of a group of ten female-founded UK wine businesses.

Guests will have the chance to taste wines from ten different wine importers including Marta Vine, Vin de Vie and Vins-Clairs.

Founding member Caroline Brange of Vin de Vie said: “The tasting will be a great opportunity for the press and buyers to sample a wide range of wines from these specialist importers. We each have our own approach and our own area of specialism, so the event really will be an unrivaled opportunity to taste some unique wines and get to know our portfolios.”

Claire Thevenot MS of Vins-Clairs added: “The diversity of approaches of all these companies is amazing. We want to showcase our achievements and our contribution to this industry. We have a very special spirit of collaboration over competition, and the tasting will be a great opportunity to come together in a really powerful way, to create an event that is truly valuable to our customers.”

Akira Back at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London is also offering a special dining experience.

Tickets can be bought for the event here.

Champagne & Sushi: From March 1-31, groups of two or more can enjoy a Chef’s selection of sushi, sashimi, and rolls with a glass of Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut for £60 per person (minimum two people).

Dine & Unwind at ABar Rooftop: After dining, enjoy cocktails at ABar Rooftop with panoramic views and expertly crafted drinks, perfect for celebrating with friends, family, or colleagues.

Chef Akira Back said: "We're excited to offer this special package as a way to honour and celebrate women, it's a wonderful opportunity for groups to come together, enjoy exceptional food and drink, and kick back and create lasting memories in a stylish setting."

International Women’s Day takes place on March 8, 2025.

Written by Abi Kinsella

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