When the student becomes the master.

From Students to Teachers: Voices from the Classroom

At the Bakery School Foundation, some stories come full circle. Former students are now standing at the front of the classroom, passing on their knowledge, passion, and experience to a new generation. We spoke with Rhetabile (South Africa), Nguyen (Vietnam), and Rama, Hassan, and Malak (Lebanon) about their journey from student to teacher.

What first inspired you to join the bakery school?

Quynh: “I’ve always loved the smell of freshly baked cakes and the joy of creating something delicious for others. Baking makes me happy, and I wanted to turn that passion into something more.”

Rama: “I loved cooking from a young age, often with my mother. At some point, I realized I wasn’t happy in my studies, so I decided to follow my passion for baking.”

Hassan: “Baking was always the part of hospitality I felt most connected to. I was looking for deeper, more practical experience.”

Looking back, what moments shaped you the most as a student?

Rhetabile: “The strong foundation we received, skills and techniques that made everything else possible.”

Quynh: “Our first year was full of challenges, but thanks to our teachers, we overcame them. I also remember my first presentation, it was nerve-wracking but exciting.”

Malak: “The moments when things went wrong. That’s where I learned the most, how to fix mistakes and grow from them.”

Why did you decide to return as a teacher?

Rhetabile: “I’ve always wanted to pass on my knowledge and help learners bake themselves a better future.”

Hassan: “I wanted to give back to the place that shaped me and inspire the next generation, just like I was inspired.”

Malak: “I felt ready to share everything that shaped me, and I understood the students because I was once in their place.”

How did it feel stepping into the classroom as a teacher for the first time?

Quynh: “I never imagined I would come back as a teacher. It was nerve-wracking, confusing, but also something I’m very proud of.”

Rama: “I felt proud, but also a strong sense of responsibility.”

Rhetabile:  “It was overwhelming, but in a good way. I was proud of how far I had come.”

What surprised you most about teaching?

Hassan: “As a student, you focus on learning. As a teacher, you have to think about how to explain things clearly and adapt to each student.”

Quynh: “Teaching is not just about knowledge, it’s about inspiring students.”

Malak: “It requires a lot of patience and understanding different perspectives.”

How would you describe your teaching style?

Rama: “I try to be balanced, strict when needed, but also supportive and understanding.”

Rhetabile: “I use different methods to make sure students understand, combining visuals, explanations, and individual support.”

Hassan: “My approach is hands-on and supportive. I guide students step by step while encouraging creativity.”

What is the most rewarding moment for you as a teacher?

Malak: “Seeing students become confident and proud of what they create.”

Hassan: “When a student masters something they once found difficult. It’s incredibly rewarding.”

Quynh: “Watching their smiles when their cakes come out of the oven.”

What do you want your students to learn beyond baking skills?

Rhetabile: “That it’s okay to make mistakes and keep trying until you get it right.”

Hassan: “To understand the ‘why’ behind every technique, not just follow steps.”

Malak: “That mistakes are part of learning, and there’s no need to compare yourself to others.”

How has the bakery school shaped your life?

Quynh: “It gave me a profession, confidence, and the ability to support my family.”

Rama: “It taught me discipline, organization, and responsibility, not just baking.”

Malak: “It helped me discover my potential and build my confidence.”

What makes the Bakery School Foundation unique?

Quynh: “The school supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds and provides everything, from ingredients to career opportunities.”

Rhetabile: “It provides accredited, structured training that makes a real difference.”

Hassan: “It’s about understanding, learning not just how, but why things work.”

What advice would you give to new students?

Quynh: “Be patient and don’t be afraid of failure. Work hard and always put your heart into what you do.”

Rama: “Enjoy the process and believe in yourself.”

Malak: “Don’t compare yourself to others. Learn, practice, and grow at your own pace.”

What are your hopes for the future?

Rhetabile: “I hope to create opportunities and employment for young people.”

Hassan: “I want to keep growing and help students reach their full potential.”

Quynh: “I hope the school continues to grow and offer opportunities to more young people.”

These stories reflect more than career paths. They show the lasting impact of learning, mentorship, and opportunity. From students to teachers, they are now shaping the future of baking, one learner at a time.