From Passion to Pitch: Serena Bekdache Turns Her Love for Chocolate into an Award-Winning Business Idea

At the Bakery School Foundation, we are always inspired by the achievements of our students beyond the classroom. Their success stories demonstrate how technical skills, creativity, and determination can open doors to exciting opportunities. One such story is that of Serena Bekdache, a second-year student at Issam Hachwi Bakery School in Lebanon, who recently transformed her passion for chocolate into an entrepreneurial success.

Building Skills Beyond Baking

Alongside her studies, Serena participated in the UNICEF GIL Entrepreneurship Program through the Nawaya Network, an initiative designed to empower young people with the tools and knowledge needed to turn innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.

Through the program, Serena completed intensive training in Design Thinking and Business Management, gaining valuable insights into how to identify market opportunities, develop business concepts, and bring entrepreneurial ideas to life.

A Winning Chocolate Concept

The program culminated in a live pitch competition where participants presented their business ideas to a panel of evaluators. Drawing on her passion for artisanal chocolate, Serena developed and presented a unique chocolate business concept.

The experience was both challenging and rewarding. Competing against other talented young entrepreneurs required not only creativity and preparation but also confidence and resilience. Serena rose to the occasion and successfully communicated both her vision and business potential.

Her efforts paid off: her pitch was selected as one of the winning projects, earning her a place in the program's upcoming incubation phase, where she will receive further support to develop her concept into a viable entrepreneurial venture.

Passion, Learning and Courage

Serena's journey highlights the powerful combination of passion, education, and perseverance. What began as a love for chocolate has evolved into an entrepreneurial opportunity with real potential for impact and growth.

Her achievement also reflects the broader mission of the Bakery School Foundation and Issam Hachwi Bakery School: empowering young people with not only technical bakery and pastry skills but also the confidence and mindset needed to build successful careers and businesses.

An Inspiration for Future Generations

We are incredibly proud of Serena and all that she has accomplished. Her story is a reminder that entrepreneurship often starts with a simple passion and the courage to pursue it.

As Serena moves forward into the incubation phase, we look forward to following her journey and seeing where her entrepreneurial vision takes her next.

Congratulations, Serena! Your achievement is an inspiration to fellow students and a wonderful example of how skills, determination, and creativity can turn an idea into an opportunity.