Baking and Pastry Arts Management Students Triumph at Province-Wide Competition

HLOs:

On May 5th, four Baking and Pastry Arts Management students achieved a remarkable feat by showcasing their talent and creativity at the Bakery Showcase 'My Canada' Student Cake Competition, jointly organized by Bakers Journal and the Baking Association of Canada.

Exclusive to students enrolled in accredited baking and pastry programs across Ontario, the competition provided a platform for emerging talents to demonstrate their skills in front of industry professionals, receive valuable feedback from judges, and make connections within the Canadian baking industry.

Participants were tasked with visually interpreting the essence of Canada through themed tiered cakes and plated desserts, utilizing regional foods, ingredients, and cultural motifs. Guided by Baking & Pastry Arts Management Professor Josie Bancheri, who brought her extensive competition experience to the table, the students worked for countless hours on their creations.

Employing techniques learned in their cake decorating and advanced confectionery classes, the students crafted their showpiece cakes, incorporating hand piping, fondant sculpting, gum paste, wafer florals, edible paint, tempered chocolate work, and sugar art. Additionally, they created plated desserts highlighting the complex flavour profiles, textures, and garnishes that celebrate the diversity of Canada.

Humber students clinched the first, second, and third place prizes, along with the coveted People's Choice Award. The winners included Roula Kadimi, who secured the top prize of $2,000, Kelsea Pacson, earning $750 for the second spot, and Vanessa Levesque, claiming the $500 third-place prize. Kelsea Pacson's tiered cake also won the People's Choice Award, adding another $250 to her winnings.

These outstanding achievements have earned the winners a feature in Bakers Journal magazine, marking a proud moment for both the students and the Humber community!