Yes Shef Brings Women in Food & Beverage to Ontario at RC Show 2026
For one special evening in March 2026, women shaping Canada’s food and beverage industry will take centre stage. Yes Shef, the acclaimed culinary event dedicated to celebrating women in hospitality, will make its Ontario debut on Monday, March 9 during RC Show 2026 at The International Centre in Mississauga.
After five successful years in British Columbia, Yes Shef has become known as a powerful platform that celebrates, mentors, and amplifies women across the culinary world. The Ontario edition will feature more than 15 tasting stations led by women chefs, restaurateurs, and their culinary mentees, alongside wines, beers, and cocktails created by women in the beverage industry. More than a tasting event, the evening is a celebration of leadership, mentorship, and innovation.
“Toronto’s food and beverage scene is among the most dynamic in the country, and women are at the forefront of its growth and creativity,” says Joanna Jagger, Founder & Executive Director of WORTH Association, the non-profit organization behind Yes Shef. “This event is about more than food—it’s about connection, mentorship, and creating real opportunities for the next generation of culinary leaders.”
WORTH Association is dedicated to advancing equity across recreation, tourism, and hospitality. Although women make up a significant portion of the workforce, they remain underrepresented in leadership and decision-making roles. Through initiatives like Yes Shef, WORTH delivers mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities that help women build skills, confidence, and lasting industry connections.
As Canada’s premier foodservice and hospitality event, RC Show provides an ideal setting for Yes Shef’s Ontario launch. Each year, more than 27,000 industry professionals attend RC Show to explore emerging trends, products, and innovations shaping the future of foodservice. Including Yes Shef within the show’s Women in Hospitality programming underscores the growing influence of women in Canada’s culinary landscape while offering attendees meaningful experiences and connections.
Mentorship remains at the core of Yes Shef. At the Mississauga debut, established chefs will be paired with emerging women culinary students, creating hands-on learning opportunities and real-world guidance. The 2026 lineup includes notable names such as Alida Solomon (Tutti Matti), Charlotte Langley (Nice Cans), Donna Dooher (Mildred’s Temple Kitchen), Eva Chin (Yan Dining Room), Evelyn Chick (Evelyn Chick Projects), Nicole Hynes (Sand & Pearl), Marissa Leon-John (Elle Jays), and Suman Ali, among others.
The event begins at 5:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at $220, with a preferred rate available for RC Show attendees. Proceeds from the evening will support women working across recreation, tourism, and hospitality, further strengthening Yes Shef’s mission to advance equity throughout the industry.
With its Ontario debut, Yes Shef is set to inspire, connect, and elevate women in the Greater Toronto Area’s culinary community—one dish, one pairing, and one mentorship at a time.
Learn more: Yes Shef | WORTH Association | RC Show
