Translations

LESAFFRE trains Chinese orphans the art of French baking

7. Community involvement

Skills and technology transfer

Sector Food-processing

Year 2015

Country China

Transmitter

Context

As a global key player in yeasts and fermentation, Lesaffre designs, manufactures and markets innovative solutions for Baking, Food taste & pleasure, Health Care and Biotechnology. Family group born in northern France in 1853, now a multi-national and a multicultural company, Lesaffre employs 8 300 people. China has been involved with Shanghai Young Bakers and offers Chinese orphans training on the art of French and Chinese baking.

Objectives

To train the Chinese youth, who have trouble finding a career path, on the art of French and Chinese baking
Provide opportunities and allow them to pursue a career in a booming sector
Promote western bread and food
Share the know-how of artisanal French baking

APPROACH

Shanghai Young Bakers is a charity that offers Chinese orphans training in French bakery and pastry on the basis of work-linked training (theoretical and practical).

Since 2009, Lesaffre Management Shanghai Co. Ltd. is committed to this project. Among the trainers, a Lesaffre baker passes along its knowledge to the students.
It’s a real opportunity for children who have left school early, often primary school.

Thus, the company gives hope to young people aged 17-23 years from disadvantaged families by providing them with access to vocational training. Students are selected based on their motivation.

This commitment helps local families in need by allowing their child to follow a professional training in the fascinating bakery business.

Best Practice spotted in 2010 by the World Forum for a Sustainable Economy and updatedin 2015.