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Dive into the decadent world of chocolate with Master Chocolatier Colleen Heidecker of Colleen’s Chocolates! Discover the fascinating history of chocolate, from its ancient beginnings to the sweet treat we love today. Colleen will take you on a flavourful journey, showing you where chocolate comes from, how it's made, and the secrets to tasting it like a pro. Plus, you'll get to indulge in a guided Chocolate Tasting Experience, where you'll learn to appreciate the subtle notes and rich textures that make each bite unforgettable. Perfect for chocolate enthusiasts and curious minds alike—don’t miss out on this sweet adventure!
Master Chocolatier: Colleen Heidecker
Colleen Heidecker, the Master Chocolatier behind Colleens Chocolates has an extraordinary background. With a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and Animal Behaviour from the U of A, Colleen trained dolphins and other animals worldwide for nearly two decades. Next, a fascination with the Mojave Desert led her to organize adventure races and trail run events in Las Vegas, where she developed nutrient-dense, superfood-infused snacks for her athletes. She then transitioned to Canmore, AB, creating her own desserts company before becoming the Lead Dessert Chef at Noorish Conscious Eatery in Edmonton, specializing in raw food and vegan cuisine.
For the past 6 years, Colleen has taught hospitality, entrepreneurship, and work ethics to Indigenous students, leveraging her extensive international experience in the hospitality industry. Her goal has been to assist her students by imparting valuable skills and knowledge while being in a comfortable learning environment.
Colleen's entrepreneurial journey has been shaped significantly by her 7-year involvement in BNI. BNI's structured approach, rooted in the "giver's gain" principle, played a pivotal role in her success. By actively combatting the scarcity mindset, BNI emphasizes the belief that the more one contributes, the more they receive in return. As a lifelong learner and fiercely competitive individual, Colleen deeply appreciated all the relationships she fostered during that time, which still continue to be a vital part of her business and success.
Her newest entrepreneurial venture is the creation of a media business, The Food Explorer Podcast. She creates weekly content on YouTube and all audio podcast platforms and writes articles on Substack. This passion for all things food is growing into a worldwide community, and she can’t wait to see where it takes her!
Colleen's commitment to creating a sense of community and cohesion has not only propelled her own entrepreneurial success but has also demonstrated the profound rewards that come from assisting others in achieving their business goals.
Meeting Agenda:
- Informal networking and meal service from 5:00pm-6:30pm (each attendee is responsible for their meal tab)
- CPB Canada announcements and attendee introductions 6:30pm
- Presentation – 7pm – 8pm
- Informal networking and meeting adjournment 8pm-8:30pm
In Person: The Mill Craft Bar & Kitchen 4810 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 5H5
**Please note that there is a $20.00 fee (before taxes) per person to cover the cost of the chocolate. Everyone will be responsible for their own food and beverage bills.
Contact: Regional Network Chair - Bonnie Jensen-Walker - Email: bonnie@profitsr4u.ca & Regional Network Co-Chair - Jessica Goodall - cpbedmregionalnetwork@gmail.com