Vancouver Bakers Compete for Glory in The Great Canadian Baking Show

Three bakers from the Vancouver area will showcase their culinary talents in the upcoming season of The Great Canadian Baking Show, set to premiere on October 5, 2023, at 20:00 on CBC and CBC Gem. This season marks a significant milestone, as it features a record number of participants from Vancouver, including Jo Mandet, an event planner from North Vancouver, Dan Vano, a customer success associate from Burnaby, and Jennifer Tsang, a master’s student also from Burnaby.

The competition draws inspiration from the beloved British format, The Great British Bake Off. It pits 10 amateur bakers against each other in a series of themed challenges designed to celebrate their diverse backgrounds. Each one-hour episode consists of three rounds: the Signature Bake, the Technical Bake, and the Show Stopper. At the end of each episode, the judges critique the creations, awarding one baker the title of Star Baker while eliminating another from the competition.

The show is hosted by comedians and actors Alan Shane Lewis and Ann Pornel, both of whom bring a lively dynamic to the tent. The judging panel comprises experienced pastry chefs Bruno Feldeisen and Kyla Kennaley, whose expertise will guide the bakers throughout the challenges.

Among this season’s contestants is Dan Vano, 35, who is eager to demonstrate his baking skills. Joining him is Jo Mandet, 44, whose experience in event planning has honed her ability to create visually stunning desserts. Jennifer Tsang, at just 24 years old, adds youth and innovation to the group, promising to bring fresh perspectives to the competition.

The other bakers include a mix of professionals and amateurs from across Canada, such as Dominic Ménard-Bilodeau, a geography teacher from Longueuil, Quebec, and Shaneka Ekanayake, a sales support administrator from Barrie, Ontario. Their diverse experiences and backgrounds are sure to enrich the competition, making for an exciting season.

As anticipation builds for the premiere, viewers can look forward to a show that not only tests baking skills but also highlights the unique stories and cultures of its contestants. With ten bakers competing for the title, the stakes are high, and each episode promises to deliver both culinary excellence and heartfelt moments.

Mark your calendars for October 5 as The Great Canadian Baking Show returns to screens, celebrating the art of baking and the spirit of community among its contestants.