The story
Sandra Sousa
Sandra Sousa is a certified Chocolatier and Trainer (CAP — Certificate of Professional Aptitude), whose career began in 2013 in Porto's pastry kitchens.
From 2017 she deepened her specialisation with world references such as Leonardo Di Carlo (World Pastry Championship 2004 winning team), Justine Lanoo (Goût Fou, Belgium) and Josep Maria Ribé (Callebaut, Barcelona), and completed bean to bar training at Callebaut, Belgium.
Her experience took her abroad: she was responsible for the full development of the Czech brand Choklid — recipe formulation, market study and strategic positioning.
Her work earned international recognition when the Lemon Dream bonbon, created with Sweetish, received the prestigious Great Taste Award in 2019 — the UK's most important food award, granted by the Guild of Fine Food.
She is also a Pastry Trainer at PSI Porto, sharing her technical knowledge with the next generation of professionals.
Milestones
Timeline
- 2013
First steps in Porto pastry kitchens.
- 2017
Training with Leonardo Di Carlo, Justine Lanoo and Josep Maria Ribé · Callebaut Belgium.
- 2019
Great Taste Award · Lemon Dream bonbon · Guild of Fine Food, UK.
- 2024
ChokoAcademy founded · Porto.
Guild of Fine Food · UK
Great Taste Award 2019
Distinguished for the Lemon Dream bonbon — created with Sweetish and recognised by the UK's most important food award.
Guests
International chefs
ChokoAcademy regularly welcomes masters from across Europe for exclusive masterclasses.