The Power of a Woman Awards 2025
WOMEN IN FOOD 2025
Celebrating women of colour and their achievements.
Read through the amazing contributions made by each and every one of our worthy nominees this year. Then, all you need to do is vote for the woman that you think should be the recipient of this year’s award.
You can vote for one nominee per category.
Natalie Sheridan
Natalie Sheridan is a highly accomplished Head Pastry Chef with 25 years of expertise in crafting exquisite desserts and managing top-tier pastry teams. Specializing in both classical and contemporary techniques, Natalie is celebrated for her innovative and visually stunning culinary creations.
Currently leading Lexington Catering’s pastry team at one their prestigious sites. Natalie has represented team Lexington on Channel 4’s Bake Off: The Professionals in 2020. She also founded the “Sift & Bake” brand, showcasing her creative desserts through pop-ups and corporate events. Her work emphasizes inclusivity, featuring plant-based and allergen-free options that align with modern food trends.
Natalie’s career includes roles at prestigious establishments such as The Marriott Grosvenor Square and the London Hilton Metropole, where she honed her skills in the art of patisserie. Her accolades include Hotelympia medals and contributions to the Hidden Chefs cookbook.
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On being a black woman...
Chef Sia
Simisola Idowu-Ajibodu also known as Chef SiA is an established chef based in London, England and Lagos, Nigeria. The Nigerian-British chef’s mantra, “To Cook Is To Be Happy,” captures her passion for creativity and fusion of great food, showcasing the deep flavours of Nigerian cuisine using innovative culinary techniques. From curating flavours and exploring ingredients, her style of cooking recreates and reimagines the presentation of Nigerian dishes.
Chef Sia was born and raised in Nigeria till she was 12 years-old and shipped off to the UK for boarding school. Her favourite class, Food Technology, was where she knew she wanted to be a chef. After several degrees including International Marketing (MSc) and the 9 – 5 life, in 2014 Chef SiA decided to follow her ultimate passion to be a Chef and enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu, London. Following her education she secured a job at five star luxury hotel The Dorchester, London and most recently at Michelin starred Ikoyi London. Chef SiA currently hosts a supper club – Olòrì Ebì which speaks into the culinary landscape of her culture and upbringing. Fusing the bridge between Nigerian flavours and British produce, Chef SiA always aims to celebrate food with respect and elegance.
On being a black woman...
Christina Buggy
Chrissie has run her business The Caribbean Kitchen and Events Company for 22 years specialising in Attist Hospitality events and her kitchen franchise based in Brighton. This year, she has reached the final 3 of Outstanding UK Best Chef Catagory at The UK Caribbean Food Awards.
Having put on numerous club nights and events over the years, more recently Chrissie has taken her catering and music events related experience and become a Trustee / Director with BARCO (Brighton Black Anti Racism Organisation). She is a co-founder of We Free Women, a CIC providing fully funded well-being retreats for deserving women.
Chrissie hopes to continue to help others in her community and beyond through these channels.
On being a black woman...
Lauren Wilmott
Chef Lauren began her culinary journey at Westminster Kingsway College, where she was named Apprentice of the Year while training with Caprice Holdings. Gaining experience in prestigious kitchens such as 34 Mayfair, she honed her craft, focusing on vibrant, health-centred cuisine. In 2023, she showcased her culinary prowess on MasterChef: The Professionals, earning a spot as a semi-finalist and captivating judges with her bold flavour combinations and innovative techniques. Competing in MasterChef remains one of her most meaningful achievements, representing the culmination of passion and determination.
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Lauren is committed to inspiring the next generation, particularly young women, by encouraging them to break boundaries and pursue their ambitions. She specialises in private dining and brand collaborations that highlight sustainability, celebrating fresh, locally sourced ingredients while creating memorable culinary experiences.
On being a black woman...
Rashida Spyriades
Rashida Spyriades is an accomplished Pastry chef with over 2 decades of experience in the culinary arts. She has dedicated her career to perfecting the art of creating exquisite pastries and bespoke desserts that not only tantalize the taste buds but also unveil the art of presentation. Rashida owns her own pastry business, where she not only creates delightful desserts but also teaches aspiring chefs the skills and techniques needed to succeed in the industry all while being a mother of three.
Her love for great food extends beyond her own creations, she is deeply passionate about empowering other women in the food industry. Through mentorship and collaboration, she strives to uplift aspiring female chefs, sharing her knowledge and expertise to help them thrive in a competitive environment.
Rashida’s journey has taken her across various well respected establishments, where she has honed her skills in both classic techniques and innovative flavors. Her dedication to using high-quality ingredients and her artistic flair allow her to create unique cakes and desserts that leave a lasting impression. With a commitment to excellence, she continues to inspire others while delighting dessert lovers with her culinary masterpieces.
On being a black woman...
Don't miss The Exciting Awards Ceremony & After-Party
9th March 2025, London
You’ve voted for your favourite nominee, now show your support and secure your place at this gala Awards night, celebrating women of colour and their achievements.
THE POWER OF A WOMAN AWARDS 2025
Sunday 9th March
De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, London WC2B 5DA
THE POWER OF A WOMAN AWARDS
Sunday 9th March 2025
De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, London WC2B 5DA
