While I’m based in London, I spent 12 years in Colombia collaborating on social development initiatives to address complex social issues in Colombia. This journey led me to Asociación Guardabosques de la Sierra that inspired me to not only embarked on a journey exploring cacao but also reconnect with my Colombian heritage in a meaningful way. I co-founded of “LaSierra.co, a cacao journey driven by the origin” where we provide consultancy for development projects in cacao farming with Guardabosques de la Sierra in Colombia. Currently, in London, I am collaborating with a chef at the Dulwich Picture Gallery, whom I met during my previous role at Greensmiths, a top-quality grocer in Lower Marsh. At Greensmiths, I introduced the chocolate section featuring various bean-to-bar products. I’m proud to say it’s likely the only shop in London where you can select high-quality chocolates, primarily from the UK but focusing on origins, the more the merrier. Additionally, I am currently developing our own cacao derivative products, experimenting in the kitchens and working with people in the food industry in London, Barranquilla and Santa Marta.

I’m a teacher and mum of 3, over the last 7 years I’ve built a chocolate education business teaching in schools around the UK and a bean-to-bar brand (Exe Chocolate), handcrafting chocolate in small batches in my tiny chocolate factory. My current focus is on keeping up with growing demand for my chocolate!

I’m a Colombian-born, Canadian-raised chocolate and gastronomy loving, globe-traveling, food and travel writer. I’m Canada’s first Level III taster. I lead sensory tastings with a side of education all over the Greater Toronto Area and with my husband, Mario who has WSET III designation, we design custom liqueur/spirits and chocolate pairings for private clients.

Look out for the monthly