International Women’s Day: Some of the leading ladies in hospitality, share their thoughts, influences and advice.
Is there a woman who has influenced your career, and why?
There isn’t one specific woman who influenced my career. When I first started working in kitchens, they were largely dominated by male chefs, and female chefs were rare. Over time, seeing more young, talented women enter the industry and watching other female chefs stand out in their fields has become a powerful source of motivation for me. It remains for me to keep pushing myself forward and continue growing within hospitality.
Sujin Cho Chef & Co-owner – Calong, Stoke Newington
What advice would you give women starting out in hospitality today?
Firstly, don’t underestimate the value of starting at the very beginning. I began as a waitress and restaurant manager through university, that hands-on experience has informed every role I’ve held since. Understanding how a restaurant works on the floor gives you credibility and confidence throughout. Secondly, learn the numbers. Creativity and service are essential, but understanding accounts, margins and operations helps you really get your head around what makes a restaurant tick and really get to grips with the mechanics. Finally, find mentors and don’t be afraid to ask questions- question everything. You NEVER stop learning, learn from your mistakes and experience. Assume nothing– that is my mantra. Hospitality can be demanding, but it’s also incredibly supportive when you build the right network around you.
Fanny Stocker – Co-Founder of Genuine Restaurants Group
What keeps you passionate about working in hospitality?
‘Hospitality allows me to combine creativity, connection, and purpose. It is a space where I can express my talents while building something meaningful alongside my husband. Running our own business comes with many challenges, but it is also incredibly self-fulfilling.
Sharing food with people from all over the world and creating experiences that bring them comfort and joy is what motivates me every day. As we grow, I continue to discover new strengths in myself, which fuels my creativity and drives me to keep innovating.’
Nermin Khamosia – owner Ta’mini Lebanese Bakeries
What advice would you give women starting out in hospitality today?
Hospitality can be intense, but it’s also full of opportunity if you stay curious and committed. Find mentors, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to put yourself forward for new experiences. The skills you gain in this industry, resilience, people management, and creativity are incredibly valuable. Most importantly, remember that leadership comes in many forms!
Katie Welch, head of brand – The Mayfair Chippy
Is there a woman who has influenced your career, and why?
My biggest influence growing up was my grandma. I was surrounded by food and cooking from a really young age, watching her cook every day. She never measured anything – it was all by eye and instinct – and that’s how I first learned to cook. It taught me that food is about feeling, memory and intuition, not just recipes.
I’m also really inspired by women who build things from nothing and back themselves, especially in male-dominated industries such as hospitality. As a young female founder, I’ve had to learn as I go and figure things out along the way and seeing more women stepping into leadership and ownership roles makes it feel like there is space for us to build something of our own.
Simeron Lily Patel – Co-Founder of KOKUM
