MAPP Celebrated as Charitable Partner at SHFM Gala, Advocating for Gender Equality
On November 13, 2023, MAPP was honored at the prestigious Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management (SHFM) Gala in New York, where the sold-out event at Inside Park at St. Bart's recognized MAPP as its charitable partner for 2023. The gala, attended by industry luminaries, raised crucial funds to support the foundation's impactful programs, with a particular focus on MAPP's trailblazing efforts to bring gender equality and inclusivity to the workplace.
Global Tastes, Empowered Chefs
The culinary theme of the evening, curated by MAPP, celebrated the diverse and vibrant flavors of Asia, showcasing the talent of modern Asian American women chefs. The featured chefs included:
- Chef Christine Lau: A semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation in 2022.
- Chef Eunji Lee: Owner of Lysee, named La Liste’s 2023 Pastry Talent of the Year and Food & Wine’s Best New Chef 2023.
- Chef Emily Yuen: Internationally and Michelin-trained, chef/partner at Lingo.
- Chef Bao Bao: Owner of Baoburg and winner of Food Network’s CHOPPED.
Acknowledging Steadfast Partners
Founder Joanna James Moschos, in attendance to accept the honor, highlighted the unwavering support MAPP has received from steadfast partners since its inception in 2019. Two such partners, celebrated at the event, were Markham Vineyards and Dough Wine—Napa wineries under the Distinguished Vineyards & Wine Partners umbrella, both led by female winemakers.
Joanna expressed gratitude to the PepsiCo Team, particularly Sumi (Paek) DeBenedittis, Senior Director, Foodservice Industry Relations, and Susannah Sellers-Ryan, Vice President National Restaurants. Their introduction of MAPP to the SHFM team came full circle with this significant honor.
Looking Ahead to a More Equitable Future
In her remarks, Joanna James Moschos shared MAPP's commitment to forging a more equitable future for culinary and hospitality workers. The organization will continue its powerful work through advocacy, mentorship programs, and a series of virtual and in-person nationwide events, including the highly anticipated roadMAPP tour in 2024.
Opportunities abound for individuals to become MAPP members, sponsors, mentors, or participants in upcoming events to be part of the MAPP movement. The gala's success echoes the momentum building within the culinary and hospitality industry, emphasizing the collective power of fostering inclusivity and equality.
Follow @mappimpact on instagram and watch the event recap video here.
