Food

The women behind the food

By BaxterStorey 07 Mar 2024

The women in our canteens and cafés should be celebrated every day!

For International Women's Day 2024 we asked our amazing female staff at our canteens and cafés about their experiences as women in catering. From baristas to managers, read on to celebrate all of the talented and powerful women behind the food at UAL.

What makes you proud in your role at the university?

"I am proud to work very close with the catering teams in the UAL colleges, deliver engaging activities for staff and students and be surrounded by creative and inquisitive minds every day. My job is so versatile, no day is the same. Sustainability is at the core of everything we do; from the green initiatives we brought in since we started serving the first meals in our canteens, to the choice of who we work with. We are proud to serve vegan soups made with surplus vegetables, we are proud of serving freshly baked bread with 'Wildfarmed' flour. We are proud of the long-lasting collaborations with many UAL departments such us UAL Halls Life, or The Climate Emergency Network. We are proud of being leading and delivering a solid experience to our customers." - Mena, Marketing Manager at BaxterStorey for UAL

"The way the team all works together" - Rebecca, Front of House at London College of Fashion

"Our staff who produce and serve the best food" - Anita, Operations Manager at BaxterStorey for UAL

"Serving beautiful fresh food and getting positive feedback" - Jurgita, Hospitality Supervisor at London College of Fashion East Bank

Why is food so important to you/the students?

"I believe that food is the key to life. Great food which is nutritious and visually appealing can positively contribute to building a great life for both staff and students." - Vladka, Manager at London College of Fashion East Bank

"To help show the diversity of UAL." - Rebecca, Front of House at London College of Fashion

"Food supplies the necessary energy for the day, which is so important for everyone on campus." - Diamond, Bartender at Chelsea College of Arts Café

What dish reminds you of a special woman in your life?

"Grandma's dumplings." - Vladka, Manager at London College of Fashion East Bank

"Pastel de nata." - Kauany, Barista at London College of Fashion

"Pierogi." - Monika, Front of House at London College of Fashion

Do you have any advice to other women in the hospitality sector?

"There is growth for women. I think that women should go for it and strive to achieve their goals to the best of their abilities. You shouldn't let anything hold you back." - Sandra, Manager at Archway Café at Central Saint Martins

"Work with women who inspire you, mentor you and support you while you're finding your way" - Vladka, Manager at London College of Fashion East Bank

"Do everything with a smile." - Diamond, Bartender at Chelsea College of Arts Café