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Twenty previously unattached young people from the communities of Steer Town, Parry Town and Mansfield Heights in St. Ann are now being trained at the HEART College of Hospitality Services in Runaway Bay in order to acquire the necessary skills to become Commis Chefs. At the end of training, each individual should be able to secure an entry level position in the culinary field.

The programme which got underway November 5 is being sponsored by First Regional Co-operative Credit Union through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.

Speaking at the launch, First Regional’s CEO Ms. Patricia Smith told the participants to seize the opportunities offered through the Commis Chef training so that they would be empowered to make meaningful contribution to the hospitality industry.

The 15-month Commis Chef programme is being administered by the Social Development Commission (SDC) in collaboration with the HEART College of Hospitality Services.

SDC Chairman, Mr. James Walsh noted the high incidence of poverty in the communities from which the participants were drawn, and emphasised that training through the Commis Chef programme was one of the most meaningful ways they could escape the trap of unemployment.

The group was also addressed by St. Ann Custos the Hon. Norma Walters who commended the SDC and First Regional for their initiative to improve prospects for local economic enterprise within communities.

On successful completion of the programme, each participant will receive a Level 2 National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Commis Chef Certificate. Participants can then choose to return to their communities to practise their newly-acquired skills, or apply these skills in the more structured setting of a hotel or restaurant.