Premium mixer brand Double Dutch has opened applications for its 2026 Female Bartending Scholarship, now in its sixth year. The programme introduces a new approach that aims to reach more women across the UK hospitality sector and support career development at every stage.
For the first time, all applicants will gain access to three virtual learning sessions, even if they are not selected for the final cohort. These sessions will be led by established hospitality partners and mentors. From the full applicant pool, 12 scholars will be selected to take part in an expanded programme that includes workshops, mentoring and direct industry access. Applications close on 17 February 2026.
Founded in 2021 by twin sisters Joyce and Raissa de Haas, the scholarship was created to address the gap between the number of women working in hospitality and those in leadership roles. The 2026 edition builds on previous years by extending learning opportunities beyond the final group and offering selected educational content to all applicants. This year follows a period of growth for Double Dutch, which recently marked its 10th anniversary, launched a new bottle design and secured a £4.5 million investment.
Applicants are asked to submit a short statement of around 250 words outlining their current role and what they hope to gain from the scholarship. The programme is open to women across the hospitality industry, from those new to bartending to experienced professionals seeking leadership roles. There is no requirement for a minimum number of years in the industry.
Raissa de Haas, Co-Founder of Double Dutch, said:
“We’re looking for women who are deeply passionate about drinks and hospitality, and who see bartending as more than just a job. Our ideal scholars are ambitious, curious, and driven – women who have a clear vision for their future and the confidence to pursue it.
Whether their ambition lies in bar ownership, brand leadership, education, product development, or shaping the wider hospitality culture, we want to support women who aspire to lead. This scholarship is about backing the next generation of female leaders in drinks and hospitality, and helping them turn talent and determination into long-term impact.”
Double Dutch has confirmed trade partnerships and live sessions hosted at venues including The Chancery Rosewood, Swingers West End and 58 & Co Distillery. The programme will also involve one of the largest groups of female industry leaders assembled for teaching and mentoring.
Joyce de Haas, Co-Founder of Double Dutch, said:
“It is essential to use our platform to open doors. Hospitality is powered by incredible women, but far too few reach senior leadership. We believe progress doesn’t happen by accident – you have to actively create pathways for those around you. The latest research we’ve seen says that Women make up 70% of the hospitality workforce, yet only 8% of the leadership positions. It’s time to change that. This is all about building community too, and one of the best parts about the scholarship is when the alumni all come together to support each other.”
Selected scholars will take part in both in-person and virtual workshops covering drinks education, personal branding, confidence and professional development. They will also join the Double Dutch Alumni Network, which includes freelance mixologists and team leaders from venues and brands such as Cubitt House, Don Papa, Mother Mercy and The Botanist.
- Laura Willoughby MBE (Co-Founder, Club Soda);
- Liana Oster (Director of Bars, The Chancery Rosewood);
- Maura Milia (General Manager, Eagle Bar);
- Anna Sebastian (Founder, Anna Sebastian Hospitality & Celebrate Her);
- Carmen O’Neal (Founder, 58 & Co Distillery);
- Lorna MacPherson-Johnston (Food & Beverage Director, Cubitt House);
- Alexa Farrow (Brand Advocacy Manager, Hayman Distillers);
- Claudia Carrozzi (Bar Consultant & Educator, UKBG President);
- Lauren Mote (Global Director, Patrón & Bacardi)
- Noah Villeneuve (National Portfolio Ambassador, Kore Drinks);
- Mandy Naglich (Author, How to Taste);
- Wendy Hopkins (Director of Beverage UK & International, Hakkasan Group);
- Desirée Dils (Founder, Hospitality Masters);
- Tristan Darby (Brand Ambassador, Double Dutch)
https://doubledutchdrinks.com/pages/scholarship-application