Yes Shef Greater Toronto Area

Presented In Partnership with Restaurants Canada
Our first year in Mississauga was a resounding success, celebrating the women shaping Canada’s culinary scene.
March 9, 2026 5:00 PM
The International Centre. Orion Ballroom
20 Tasting Stations

Discover the women redefining Canada’s culinary scene

Maria Jiminez

The Keg

Born in Nicaragua but raised in Toronto, Maria Jimenez has been blessed to grow up in a very diverse food culture. Trying different foods and learning about different cultures has always been a central part of her family’s upbringing. This is part of the reason why she’s chosen to work in the food industry.

Full Bio

Lesle Gibson

Gibson Family Group

As one of the city’s renowned hosts, Lesle’s attention to detail and dedication to her clients has made her something of a legend in the hospitality and wine industry. With a career spanning over 25 years, she has successfully opened trendy hotspots in both Toronto and LA including Xacutti, Bird, Grace and Parc.

Full Bio

Jessica Coté

Kwe Cocktails

Jessica Coté is the founder and owner of KWE Cocktails, a Québec-based Indigenous beverage company she established in 2017.

Full Bio
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What Guests Are Saying

An incredible event. In a time like this, it’s inspiring to see the community come together to support women in culinary.
Past Attendee
It was a foodie’s dream.
Laura Ullock, Food and Lifestyle Digital Creator
Yes Shef puts fun, taste, and meaning into our culinary careers… I am so proud to be involved with Yes Shef.
Meeru Dhalwala, Co-owner, Lila
High energy, incredible food and drink, and a beautiful way to celebrate women in culinary.
Past Attendee

Impact at a Glance

toronto
$
15
K
in scholarships will be awarded at Yes Shef
15
mentorship pairings created through this event
100
%
of proceeds support women of recreation, tourism, and hospitality

As Seen In

“I can say with confidence that Yes Shef is one of the most inspiring, inclusive, and future-focused events on the culinary calendar.”
— Tracy Macgregor, Chief Operating Officer, Restaurants Canada
Partner Spotlight

Thank you to the partners helping make Yes Shef possible. Together, we’re cooking up something extraordinary.

“I can say with confidence that Yes Shef is one of the most inspiring, inclusive, and future-focused events on the culinary calendar.”
— Tracy Macgregor, Chief Operating Officer, Restaurants Canada
Partner With Us