Erica Schell | GCBS Baker Bio

Erica Schell, 30 (she/they)
Hometown: Calgary, Alta.
Occupation: Ecologist
Instagram: @erica.schell

An ecologist by trade, Erica is passionate about local vegetation and helping to keep safe the resident frogs and other amphibians when land is being developed. But when Erica's not working, baking is on their mind, an obsession picked up through osmosis from mom and grandma that blossomed in their adult life. 

Now Erica is frequently found sketching ideas or dreaming up novel flavour combinations before tackling their next baking adventure. Aside from baking, Erica's favourite pastimes are spent outside, like bird-watching and taking their cat for walks around the city. Their most recent venture is learning to skateboard, with a helping hand from boyfriend Sam.

When did you start baking? I started baking double chocolate cookies with my mom when I was small. I kept going and soon I was trying new things on my own and baking for my friend's birthdays. After I moved out I did a couple of friends' weddings and I never stopped. 

What's your signature bake? I'm a sucker for making people eat my lemon tart. 

What is your fondest memory in the kitchen? My mom and I baking together in my childhood kitchen.

Why do you think you can be Canada's Best Amateur Baker? I think I'm creative, curious, and organized in such a way that it may lead me to the cake plate at the end of this tented rainbow.

 Watch The Great Canadian Baking Show on CBC Gem.