Exclusive Hangout: Meet the Toque d’Or 2026 Team and Unlock Competition Insights
We proudly hosted an exclusive online Hangout for all registered students and lecturers, designed to guide them through this year’s Toque d’Or entry challenge and set them up for success.
The informal session, hosted by Louise Bawden, senior events and strategic partnership manager at Nestlé Professional, featured insights from two of our 2025 competitors. Front of House Winner Katie Blundell shared what she learned throughout the competition and offered her top tips from last years' experience. We were also joined by Back of House Finalist Olivia Cartlidge, who spoke about her journey, the skills she developed, and the challenges she took part in during the competition.
Attendees also heard from Nestlé Professional’s development chef Paul Hawkins, and coffee specialists Jo Walsh-Scott and Emilia Flajszer. The trio, who are judging this year’s entries, shared practical advice on how students can successfully complete their entry challenges.
The Hangout session took place on Monday 26th January at 5pm. Attendees had the unique opportunity to meet and speak to some of our 2026 judges and past competitors, making it an unmissable event.
Watch the recording below
