Ambassador
Melissa Hemsley is a cook, writer and champion of sustainable, nourishing food.
Growing-up on an army base, with an energetic Filipino mother, Melissa was taught about cooking from scratch; about not going to the shops until every ingredient in the fridge had been used-up; and about the importance of cooking and sharing food within a community. Melissa’s professional food career began as a private chef with her sister, Jasmine. After several successful years cooking wholesome, nourishing meals for international actors and musicians like Take That, Hemsley + Hemsley published two bestselling cookery books and opened a café in Selfridges. A primetime cookery show followed (subsequently sold in 20 countries worldwide), as well as countless appearances on Sunday Brunch, Saturday Kitchen and This Morning, and at food festivals all over the UK – and internationally.
In January 2018, Melissa’s first solo book, ‘Eat Happy’ was published to great critical acclaim – a celebration of fuss-free, feel-good food and packed with simple yet nutritious recipes, all made in under-30 minutes.
Melissa’s focus is now, more than ever, on sustainability. She is passionate about the importance of creating extraordinary food that is sourced from suppliers that care – both about the environment and the community; about the ground from which their food is derived, and the people to which it is served.
Melissa is a proud supporter and ambassador for Mental Health Mates, Fairtrade Foundation, CookforSyria, Headtalks, Future Dreams and The Prince’s Trust, and is a judge of the YBFs (Young British Foodies)
She truly believes that sharing stories and talking about our mental wellbeing is just as important as the food we eat. Melissa has hosted two series of the `Live Life Better’ podcast where she interviews experts all over the world on their professional advice and personal insights and tips for living a nourishing and fulfilled life.
She cooks, writes and tends her vegetable garden in Leytonstone, where she lives with her boyfriend Henry and their dog Nelly – as well as a steady stream of hungry diners, happily squeezed around her kitchen table.