In the latest episode of The Wealth Exchange podcast, Selena Woo is joined by Joanna Jagger and Meeru Dhalwala, two influential women making a difference in the hospitality and culinary industries.
Joanna, the Founder and President of the WORTH Association, shares her passion for supporting women in the recreation, tourism, and hospitality industries. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and leadership development.
Meeru, a renowned chef, author, and co-founder of Lila and Vij’s restaurants, shares her personal journey from her early life in India to her successful career in Vancouver. She discusses the challenges she faced as a woman of colour in the culinary world and how she overcame them by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment in her kitchens.
Together, Meeru and Joanna emphasize the power of resilience, the importance of self-belief, and the impact of creating spaces where everyone is welcome and valued.
Episode Featured on:
The Wealth Exchange
The Wealth Exchange podcast provides insight, innovation, and access to the experts on a wide range of topics affecting affluent families across Canada. Join our team of hosts as they sit down with leaders and changemakers from around the globe to discuss investing, leadership, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and more.
Speakers
Meeru Dhalwala
Chef & Co-Owner of Lila and Vij's
Meeru is a celebrated chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author based in Vancouver, British Columbia. She co-owns Lila, and renowned Indian restaurants Vij’s and Rangoli. Born in India, Meeru moved to Washington, D.C., with her family, where she began her career working with international non-profit organizations on human rights and economic development projects. She holds a master’s degree in Development Studies from the University of Bath in England.
Joanna Jagger
President and Founder, WORTH Association | Instructor, School of Tourism Management, Capilano University
Joanna is the President and Founder of the WORTH Association, where she champions gender equality in industry leadership. As an instructor and researcher at the School of Tourism Management, Capilano University, Joanna brings her extensive experience to the classroom. She has held prominent leadership roles in sales, catering, and human resources at prestigious hospitality brands such as Marriott, Shangri-La, Sequoia Company of Restaurants, and Joe Fortes Seafood and Chophouse.
