Public Events
Upcoming Events:
LDEI Live Online, Tuesday, October 7: noon to 1 pm: “Weighing in on GLP-1s: The Growing Impact of Weight Loss Medications on the Industry, Society, and Our Appetites.” In a follow-up to the March 2024 LDEI Table Talk, The Weight of Ozempic, food trend expert Kara Nielsen is reuniting New York University Emerita Professor of Nutrition, Food Studies, and Public Health Marion Nestle and content strategist Shaun Chavis to explore how prevalent these drugs have become; what impact they’re having on restaurants, retailers, and brands; how lawsuits have impacted access, and more. Kimberly Charles, a marketing strategist in the wine and spirits industry, will join the conversation to share her experience using a GLP-1.
For more information, register here.
Past Events:
Green Kitchen Swap, February 2025
By all accounts, this February 22 event–hosted by our chapter’s Green Tables Committee and Teaism, in partnership with DC Ecowomen and Slow Food DC–was a resounding success. At the sold-out gathering, attendees brought unwanted kitchen supplies to give away and swap with others–to reduce waste and overconsumption, build community, and support neighbors in need. “Guests shared so much positive feedback, and the enthusiasm was also evident from the smiles and excitement throughout the day,” noted Green Tables Committee Chair and Recording Secretary Lani Furbank.
A Conversation on African Food and Culture February 24, 2025
Entrepreneur and culinary ambassador Nina Oduro and food writer and culinary anthropologist Ozoz Sokoh shared their personal journeys and explored the rich diversity of African cuisines. From how recipes travel across borders to the adaptation of African ingredients in the US, this discussion highlighted the deep cultural connections and evolving narratives of African food. Moderated by Dame Susan Barocas, chair of the Global Culinary Initiatives committee.
Click here to watch this webinar.
Social Media Best Practices, January 2025
Discover the secrets to creating a standout food and beverage brand on social media with expert insights from DC Dames Meryl Feinstein (@pastasocialclub) and Anina Belle Giannini (@lechefswife), joined by special guest Britney Brown-Chamberlain (@britneybreaksbread).
Our panelists share tips, strategies, and inspiration to help you build a compelling online presence, connect with your audience, and grow your brand authentically. Whether you're a food professional or an enthusiast, you won't want to miss this opportunity to learn from the best!
Click here to watch this webinar.
Get Stuffed, October 2024
Nearly every culture has small, easy-to-eat pastries stuffed with savory and sweet fillings—from börekas, empanadas and samosas to Cornish pasties and Chinese xian bing. Participants explored the diversity of hand pies with an introduction by Dame Susan Barocas before breaking into groups and heading to the kitchens for preparation of two hand pies led by Nura Sakati Mendez, a Levantine cooking expert, and Master Chef and food writer Dame Evelyn S. Bunoan. This program was hosted by Dame Maria Kopsidas, owner of Cookology Culinary School and the Metropolitan Culinary Arts Institute. Wine for the event was donated by Prestige Ledroit.