Lal Majid, the founder of Lals Pâtisserie, has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the prestigious La Liste ‘Pastry Discovery Gem Award’ for 2024. This accolade is particularly notable as Majid is the first Pakistani to receive this recognition. Here are some key details about her achievement:
Award Highlights
La Liste Award: The La Liste ‘Pastry Discovery Gem Award’ celebrates exceptional talent in the pastry world. La Liste is known for its rigorous selection process, honoring creativity, seasonality, and commitment to culinary excellence.
Ceremony: Majid received the award at a ceremony held in Paris on June 17, 2024. It was a significant moment for her, standing out as the sole representative from Pakistan among globally renowned chefs and chocolatiers.
Recognition: Majid was thrilled to be recognized in such esteemed company, especially while wearing traditional Pakistani attire and displaying the Pakistani flag. Her accomplishment underscores the global acknowledgment of her talent and the uniqueness of her creations.
Background and Journey
Early Inspiration: Majid, who grew up in Peshawar, was inspired by the fairy tale "Hansel and Gretel," dreaming of creating a chocolate and candy house. Despite not being particularly successful in her studies, her passion for chocolates led her on a different path.
Career Shift: Initially, Majid was involved in importing chocolate. However, her interest in chocolate making prompted her to pursue extensive training and courses in confectionery arts. She eventually started producing her own chocolates and gelatos.
Lals Pâtisserie: Under her leadership and with the help of her daughter Madiha Sultan Tai, who serves as CEO, Lals has become a notable name in the confectionery world. The brand has multiple outlets in Karachi and Lahore and recently expanded to Dubai, with plans for further expansion.
Future Plans: Majid is keen on opening additional outlets, including a new location in Islamabad and another in Lahore. She also hopes to open an outlet in her hometown, Peshawar.
Majid’s story is one of dedication and passion, reflecting a journey from a dream inspired by fairy tales to international acclaim in the world of pastries. Her success highlights the growing influence and recognition of Pakistani talent on the global stage.