The South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) and Perron X Heritage Collection have announced a partnership to provide 100 bursaries for SASA's Introductory Sommelier Certification program.
The exam is designed to provide aspiring sommeliers with the basic knowledge and skills required to succeed in the wine industry. This partnership is a significant step towards increasing diversity and inclusivity in the South African wine industry.
The bursaries will cover the total cost of the exam. Applicants must be over 18 years old, have a passion for wine, and be committed to pursuing a career in the wine industry. The selection process will be based on a combination of academic performance, personal motivation, and financial need.
This initiative is an essential contribution to the development of the South African wine industry. The sommelier profession has long been associated with exclusivity and a lack of diversity. The SASA and Perron X partnership aims to address this issue by creating opportunities for aspiring sommeliers from diverse backgrounds. This will not only enhance the representation of different communities in the industry but will also improve the quality and range of services provided by sommeliers.
Commenting on the partnership, SASA chairperson Spencer Fondaumiere, said, "We are thrilled to partner with Perron X on this initiative. SASA is committed to promoting the growth of the wine industry in South Africa by providing opportunities for education and professional development. This partnership is an important step towards achieving this goal."
Vin de Classique's managing director, Andrea Lubbe, added, "We are excited to collaborate with SASA on this project. Perron X believes in the power of education to transform lives, and we are committed to supporting initiatives that promote access to education and skills development. We believe that this partnership will contribute to the growth and transformation of the South African wine industry."
Applications for the bursaries are now open and will close on June 30, 2023. Interested individuals can apply through the SASA website or by contacting Perron X directly.
To apply for the bursaries, please click HERE.