The South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) has recently announced a partnership with the Apeirogon Youth Development Academy (AYDA) (in partnership with Tourism World Academy) to provide interprovincial training for the SASA Introductory Sommelier Certificate across South Africa.
This exciting collaboration aims to introduce the art and science of wine and beverage service to raise the standard of wine knowledge and service throughout the country.
The training program is funded by the National Department of Tourism. It will be available to individuals who have set the goal to further their interest in wine and want to pursue a career in the industry. The course covers practical and theoretical topics/sections, including wine production, wine tasting, food and wine pairing, and service standards. The program will be conducted by experienced sommeliers across Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, KwaZulu Natal, and Western Cape, with 50 learners in each province.
The partnership between SASA and AYDA is significant because it represents a commitment to developing the wine industry in South Africa. The wine industry is a crucial part of the South African economy, providing employment and contributing significantly to the country's tourism industry. By improving wine knowledge and service standards, this interprovincial program will contribute to the industry's growth and promote South African wines globally.
Moreover, the program will also provide an opportunity for individuals with limited opportunities in the past to gain skills and qualifications in the wine industry. AYDA is a non-profit organization that empowers young people from underprivileged communities by providing them with skills training and career development opportunities. By combining efforts with AYDA, SASA is making a valuable contribution to the development of the wine industry and supporting social upliftment in the country.
Sommelier training is essential because it plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall dining experience. Sommeliers are experts in wine and beverage service and are responsible for recommending wines that complement the food menu. They also ensure the wine is served at the correct temperature and in the appropriate glassware. By providing training to sommeliers, SASA is improving the quality of service and creating a culture of appreciation for wine and beverage service in the country.
This joint effort to provide sommelier training across South Africa is an exciting development for our local wine industry and for developing skills for those experiencing socio-economic challenges that limit employment.
Our next SASA Introductory Sommelier Certification exam is to take place on the 25th of August, 2023. SASA partnered with Perron X to offer 100 Introductory Sommelier Certification Bursaries. To apply for the bursaries, please click HERE.
For more information, please reach out to info@sommeliers.org.za.
