Interview with Tina Scott Parashar on the Evolution of Cake Design and Empowering Women in the Industry

Tina Scott Parashar has made remarkable strides in the global cake design industry, turning her passion for creativity into a thriving career. As the editor-in-chief of India & International Cake Magazine and a mentor to aspiring cake artists, she has played a crucial role in elevating Indian cake designers onto the global stage. She is also set to host India’s first-ever India & International Cake Magazine Awards in April 2025, marking a significant milestone for the industry. In this interview, Tina Scott Parashar shares insights into her journey, the importance of mentorship, and her vision for the future of cake design, particularly for women.

Tina Scott Parashar, you’ve made remarkable strides in the global cake design industry. What inspired you to pursue this creative path?

Tina Scott Parashar: I’ve always been a creative person. For my son’s first birthday, a friend made a special cake for him. Inspired by that, I decided to bake and decorate his next birthday cake myself. What started as a personal project quickly turned into a passion. After people saw the cake I made, I began receiving orders from friends and family, and that’s how my journey into cake design began.

As a mentor, how do you encourage others to pursue their passions in this field?

Tina Scott Parashar: As a mentor, my role extends beyond teaching skills—it’s about empowering others to believe in their potential and make their mark in the industry. It’s also essential to embrace continuous self-improvement and learning. There’s no substitute for practice and hard work. I always encourage aspiring cake artists to push their creative boundaries, stay updated with trends, and never stop honing their craft.

You’re the editor-in-chief of India & International Cake Magazine. How do you see this platform contributing to the growth of the cake industry in India?

Tina Scott Parashar: India & International Cake Magazine serves as a bridge between cake designers and the broader industry. We not only showcase the incredible talent and innovation emerging from India but also present them alongside the best artists from around the world. It’s crucial to provide a platform that recognizes excellence and gives cake designers the exposure they deserve, especially in a country where the industry is still evolving. Our goal is to inspire, educate, and elevate Indian cake artists to international recognition.

What does it mean to you to host India’s first-ever India & International Cake Magazine Awards in April 2025?

Tina Scott Parashar: Hosting the India & International Cake Magazine Awards is a significant step in recognizing the dedication and hard work of cake designers across the country. We intend for this award to serve as an important platform for Indian cake designers to network with some of the best artists and judges from around the world.

It’s about creating a space where talent is celebrated, innovation is recognized, and the next generation of cake designers is inspired to reach new heights. This event marks a pivotal moment in the history of cake design in India, and it’s an honor to be part of that journey.

You’ve achieved so much in your career already. What’s your vision for the future of cake design, particularly for women in this space?

Tina Scott Parashar: The future of cake design is bright, especially for women, who make up a significant portion of this field. In fact, the vast majority of our members on our Facebook page are women, reflecting the strong female presence in this industry.

Receiving the Hall of Fame Award from D’licious Magazine in the UK, recognizing my contributions to the sugar craft industry and my efforts in elevating Indian artists, has been a significant milestone. My vision is to continue providing equal opportunities for all, fostering collaboration between global and local artists, and bringing fresh, diverse perspectives to the cake design world.

One of my continuous efforts is to provide an international platform where Indian artists—most of whom are women—can showcase their work to a global audience and learn from some of the best in the world.

As a pioneer in the industry, what message do you have for those looking to make a mark in their respective fields?

Tina Scott Parashar: Don’t let fear or self-doubt hold you back. The journey to success is often long and filled with challenges, but persistence, passion, and resilience are key. Never underestimate the power of believing in yourself and your abilities.

Every individual has the potential to become a leader in their field—it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, staying true to your vision, and constantly learning. I always encourage aspiring artists to put their work out there in competitions, get it judged, and be open to constructive feedback.

Surround yourself with a supportive community, embrace lifelong learning, and be fearless in pursuing your dreams.