Baking with Purpose: Sophie Lambert Awarded our 2026 Microbakery Bursary

Les Dames d'Escoffier London is delighted to announce that Sophie Lambert has been awarded the 2026 LDE London Microbakery Bursary, delivered in partnership with the School of Artisan Food.

The bursary provides a fully funded place on the School's renowned Microbakery Programme, supporting aspiring bakers to develop the skills, confidence and business knowledge needed to build sustainable artisan baking enterprises.

Sophie impressed the selection panel with her passion, determination and strong sense of purpose. A dedicated home baker who has developed her skills through years of self-directed learning and experimentation, she combines a love of traditional baking with a commitment to local, seasonal ingredients. Alongside her baking, Sophie is currently studying for a degree in psychology and has already secured a 5-star food hygiene rating for her home kitchen.

What particularly stood out was Sophie's ambition to use baking as a force for good in her community. Her vision includes creating an accessible and affordable artisan baking business, operating a community cake shed, supporting local events and working with food banks and homeless shelters to provide treats for those experiencing food and financial hardship.

The bursary will enable Sophie to build on her existing skills and take the next step towards turning her passion into a viable business with a positive social impact.

Cathy Sloman, President of Les Dames d'Escoffier London, said:

"Sophie stood out not only for her talent and commitment, but for her desire to use food to support others. We are delighted to be able to support her journey through this bursary and look forward to seeing the impact she will make in her community."

The LDE London Microbakery Bursary forms part of the Chapter's wider commitment to supporting women in food, beverage and hospitality through education, skills development and entrepreneurship.

Congratulations, Sophie — we look forward to following your journey.