33rd Annual Chefs for UNICEF Gala Halifax

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 33rd Annual Chefs for UNICEF Gala in Halifax, held on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The evening brought together the Halifax community in a remarkable show of support for UNICEF Canada and its mission to create a better world for every child.

The Gala featured 10 incredible local chefs who showcased their talents at unique food stations, offering guests a delicious journey through diverse culinary styles. Guests also enjoyed inspiring speakers, live music, and an exciting auction featuring over 110 items.

This unforgettable night celebrated the power of community and the vital work UNICEF does in more than 190 countries and territories—delivering healthcare, nutrition, vaccines, education, and protection to children everywhere.

The challenges facing children around the world today are profound, and your support ensures UNICEF can continue its life-saving work where it’s needed most. Thank you for standing with us.

Stay tuned for updates on future Chefs for UNICEF Galas, and thank you for making this year's event such a meaningful success. 

Still want to support?
You can continue to make a difference by donating a Vital Roots Bundle to help provide essential nutrition to children and families in need.

Nikki Northern
Senior Manager, Events and Experiences
nnorthern@unicef.ca
416 482 4444 ext. 8813

Photo Gallery

Look back at the past 32 years of the Gala. View the photo gallery!

CHAIR, PATRONS & COMMITTEE

Event Chair

Jeannine Bakeeff
Laura Maynard

Patrons Council

Greg Bakeeff - Senior Wealth Advisor, BMO Nesbitt Burns
Jeannine Bakeeff - Chair, UNICEF Water for Life Gala
Natasha Benigno Chandler - Vice President, Benigno Group of Companies
Jamie Berryman - Vice President, National Sales, Sysco Canada Inc.
Troy Calder - President, Charm Diamond Centres
Kim Day - President & COO, Steele Auto Group
Mark Faddoul - Director & Assistant Market Leader, BMO Private Wealth
Andrew Inch - Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Cresco
Mark Johnston – MD, Psychiatrist, True North Psychological Services
Lori Park - Partner, Atlantic Canada Market Leader, Mercer Canada

Organizing Committee

Ben Baxter
Alex Cherry
Daisy Cobden – Auction Committee Co-Chair
Alannah Delahunty-Pike
Sean Doucet – Lead Chef
Jessica Francisco
Julie Gibson
Alexandra Gosse
Zainab Khaliki
Paige McQuaid 
Alice Newbery
Matthew Orrell
Mathieu Ouellette
Wendy Phillips
Caleb Power – Auction Committee Co-Chair
Michelle Power
Colleen Robbins 
Joanna Shackleton
Mahnaz Sobhani

For further information regarding our Patrons Council & Committees, please reach out to Claire Murphy at clmurphy@unicef.ca.