Clearworld Suppliers, along with Sanpellegrino and Acqua Panna, has collaborated with the Sommeliers Academy to introduce the pioneering Upliftment Scholarship Programme in South Africa. This initiative aims to elevate the standard of service in South African restaurants, bars and hotels to an international level.
Administered by the Sommeliers Academy, this dynamic scholarship programme is designed to revolutionise the skills and knowledge of restaurant, hotel and bar industry professionals. It stands as a testament to Clearworld Suppliers' unwavering commitment in gastronomy and hospitality excellence, focusing on empowering individuals to mastering the art of beverage and wine service.
"Sanpellegrino and Acqua Panna Brands have always been associated in various collaborative projects within the culinary, wine, and mixology world," says Ania Odyniecka, national sales and marketing manager for Sanpellegrino and Acqua Panna.
"We believe that empowerment and education are vital for the success and growth of our industry. By giving back to the community and supporting our loyal customers, we build long-term, meaningful relationships," says Philip Abrahamson, CEO of Clearworld Suppliers.
Imagine the finest tables adorned with S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, the finest natural mineral water brands. These iconic names are more than just beverages; they fully support the mission of Sommeliers Academy. Alongside Clearworld Suppliers, they champion the Academy's dedication to achieving service excellence across the continent of Africa.
The Upliftment Scholarship Programme is not just about education; it's also about transformation. The programme offers an array of courses, from Wine Steward to full-fledged Junior Sommelier courses. Crucially, it provides seasoned hospitality professionals the chance to elevate their skills to the standards of the world's top establishments.
Courses in the programme delve into cutting-edge stock management practices, innovative recycling protocols, and the optimisation of local resources. This education not only hones students' service capabilities but also champions a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry.
Every course within this scholarship programme adheres to the prestigious ASI (Association de la Sommellerie Internationale) guidelines, which set the gold standard for sommelier service and certification. With Jean Vincent Ridon at the helm – manager of the Sommeliers Academy and the reigning Best Sommelier of South Africa, as well as a member of the ASI Exam and Education Committee – participants are guaranteed top-tier training. They will receive a SASA certification, recognised by 70 other member nations of the ASI. The ASI's presence in South Africa, represented by SASA, underscores the global reach and impact of this initiative.
In a country where education has often faced challenges, skill transfer and competency enhancement are vital.
Jean Vincent passionately asserts, "This programme aims to uplift the entire hospitality sector by empowering candidates with globally recognised skills. The training not only prepares them for local excellence but also opens doors for international career opportunities."
Join us in this thrilling journey of empowerment and excellence, where the future of hospitality in Africa is being shaped – one course at a time.
How can South Africans apply for the scholarships?
South Africans can apply for the scholarships through Clearworld Suppliers (who manages the selection process) at any time. There is no specific cut-off date for applications. Once candidates are chosen, Sommeliers Academy oversees the training.
The scholarships are specifically intended for individuals already working in hospitality who are unable to fund their own upskilling. Key qualifying criteria include active employment in hospitality and a strong motivation to advance their skills.
Training locations currently include Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, with nationwide options potentially available through Sommeliers Academy.
The scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees and examination costs. Additionally, private mentoring and SASA membership are included where required.
Ania adds, "The upliftment scholarship programme as created by Clearworld Suppliers is a long-term project to assist individuals in the industry who are eager to further their skills and education. In turn, we work closely in collaborating with our industry partners – both existing and potential clients – to offer this opportunity as a support tool, knowing that Sanpellegrino and Acqua Panna are brands synonymous with pairing and mixology. Hence, the partnership with Sommeliers Academy showcases a joint synergy with the programme offers."
For inquiries and applications, please contact sales@clearworld.co.za.