For many bakers in Fiji, the enticing scent of freshly baked bread embodies both their tradition and livelihood. Aiming to enhance this deeply rooted culinary craft, FMF has partnered with Australian firm Azelis to launch a new training initiative designed to elevate local baking standards. This program not only seeks to equip Fijian bakers with modern techniques but also strives to retain local talent and prevent them from seeking opportunities abroad.
FMF Bakery Manager Sachin Kumar emphasized the importance of this training in promoting the baking industry, stating, “We want to retain our talent here in Fiji and help our bakers produce products that can be compared to what’s found overseas.” This initiative reflects FMF’s dedication to quality and its commitment to empowering local artisans to excel in an increasingly competitive global market.
Over the coming months, the training will extend to bakeries, hotels, and airlines, ensuring that bakers—regardless of their experience level—have access to expert knowledge and skills. Ross Young, the Bakery Account Manager at Azelis, reiterated the program’s goal of sharing invaluable industry knowledge, stating, “Our goal is to transfer our experience from Australia and help Fiji’s bakers grow with confidence and quality.”
This forward-thinking approach resonates with broader efforts within Fiji to bolster vocational training and enhance local entrepreneurship. Similar initiatives, such as the National Council for Persons with Disabilities’ bakery project, aim to empower marginalized communities through skills development in baking, demonstrating a growing commitment to inclusivity in employment opportunities. In both cases, the aim is to uplift individuals and communities by providing them with the necessary skills to thrive in local markets.
The optimism surrounding these training programs highlights an encouraging trend in Fiji, where local bakers and individuals from various backgrounds can flourish together. As they gain new skills and knowledge, participants foster an environment ripe for innovation and economic development, creating a ripple effect that benefits the broader Fijian community.
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