On Friday, 22 March, the Government of Bermuda, and Bacardi marked a significant milestone, coming together to celebrate nine Bermudian Shake Your Future candidates. This innovative program, a testament to Bacardi's commitment to youth empowerment and the Government's dedication to supporting local talent, has proven to be a transformative force in the hospitality industry.
The success of the first cohort of Shake Your Future candidates speaks volumes about the program's value. Many are now gainfully employed as full-time bartenders in the hospitality industry, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in providing real-world skills and opportunities for career advancement.
Last year, Kierra Lee made history by winning Bermuda's Best Bartender Competition, becoming the youngest winner and the first female to claim the top spot. Kierra's achievement underscores the program's inclusivity and the calibre of talent nurtured through Shake Your Future.
Expressing his gratitude towards Bacardi, the Minister of Economy and Labour, Jason Hayward, said, "In celebration of the nine Bermudian Shake Your Future candidates, I want to thank Bacardi for their unwavering commitment to creating training opportunities for our young people in the hospitality industry. This partnership, characterized by significant investment from the Government and Bacardi, represents our shared dedication to supporting Bermuda's youth through transformative initiatives."
Minister of Education Diallo Rabain, who participated in the event on behalf of Minister Hayward, said, "The new Shake Your Future candidates embody Bermuda's talent and resilience. Their upcoming journey is a cornerstone of our commitment to developing skilled professionals for the hospitality industry. This program is part of our pledge to the future of our youth and ensuring they can enjoy promising careers at home."
"As Bacardi launches the second cohort of Shake Your Future in Bermuda, we look forward to their achievements and contributions to our hospitality industry," Douglas Mello, Managing Director of Bacardi Limited, stated. "Our partnership with the Bermuda Government's Department of Workforce Development continues to pave the way for promising young adults by providing free, professional bartender training, strengthening our local industry, and improving our hospitality product. We're excited to watch this new group thrive at the European Bartending School in London and return with skills that promise to enrich our community and continue the legacy of their successful predecessors."
As the latest cohort of candidates embarks on their journey, they carry with them the promise of a bright future filled with exciting opportunities. Minister Jason Hayward urges them to embrace this experience with enthusiasm and confidence, knowing that their journey as bartenders is not just a career path but an opportunity for growth and fulfilment.
Congratulations to the Shake Your Future candidates on their accomplishments, dedication, resilience, and passion for bartending, which inspire future generations, showcasing the talent and potential within Bermuda's hospitality industry.