Caitlin
“You are strong, you are kind, your voice deserves to be heard, you have value.”
Caitlin is driven, creative, and always willing to step beyond her comfort zone in the world of food design. Her curiosity feeds her creative muscle, allowing her to constantly produce new and exciting projects. She is passionate about providing others with unique culinary experiences and expanding their palates along the way. Meet Caitlin. This is her story.
K: Please introduce yourself!
C: Hi, I'm Caitlin Le Harivel, a self-described creative and food fanatic. A bit of a Willy Wonka, I love to play with my food and have created a number of unique food events involving edible artworks, eating from walls and a giant jelly island (www.caitlinleharivel.com). I like to take people on culinary adventures that bring out a sense childlike wonder and play. I believe in letting your inner child out on a regular basis and exploring the world with curiosity.
An avid learner, I am privileged to have two wonderful parents that have always nurtured my curiosity, encouraging my passion for asking questions and creative expression no matter the unusual medium.
While I call Aotearoa home, I was born in Scotland and come from English, Scottish and French Heritage. I like to say my Scottish heritage is expressed in my cheekiness and straight up approach and my kiwi side comes through in my easy going nature.
K: What is your favourite thing about yourself?
C: I like to cut through the red tape and make things happen and appreciate the integrity and determination that comes from a family of hard workers and creative spirits. But what I probably most value is the sense of play and inquisitiveness that allows me moments of silliness, fun and seeing the world in new ways.
K: What is one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self?
C: Don't be scared to let your light shine and express yourself, your voice has value. Take all the opportunities that face you. Apologise less. Say no more. While it might not feel like it, in the words of Caroline Adams, "You are on the path…exactly where you are meant to be right now."
K: What does being a woman mean to you?
C: Independence, expressing my femininity in my own way, being part of a sisterhood, working to break down barriers and challenge patriarchal systems that we all face.
K: Who is one woman that inspires you? What would you say to her if she were here now?
C: All women that face their own struggles while supporting others and shining their light, so others are encouraged to do the same. You are strong, you are kind, your voice deserves to be heard, you have value. “Your life is your life, don’t let it be clubbed into submission” from Charles Bukowski’s The Laughing Heart.