Special to Bullet News
Niagara College student and St. Catharines resident Brittany Calsavara. Photo special to Bullet News.
A Niagara College student is enjoying the sweet taste of success as one of the top young bakers in the country, after winning a bronze medal at the Skills Canada National Competition.
Brittany Calsavara, a first-year baker apprentice student, was among about 500 young competitors from across Canada who travelled to Quebec City for the Olympic-Style, multi-trade competition – the only event of its kind in the country – held from June 1-5.
The 21-one-year-old St. Catharines resident qualified for the national pastry competition after winning gold at the Ontario Technological Skills Competition in May.
“The experience of competing at the Skills Canada National Competition was a tremendous personal learning experience. Throughout the training process, Chef Professor Philippe Corbiere encouraged me reach my potential, allowing me to be competitive at the national level,” said Calsavara. “I was honoured to stand on the podium at the nationals representing Ontario and Niagara College.”
Corbiere, Chef Professor at Niagara College’s Canadian Food and Wine Institute and Calsavara’s competition coach, said he was delighted about his student’s accomplishment and dedication to her chosen trade.
“What an achievement for a first-year student with only four months of pastry training,” he said.
“Brittany was an incredible ambassador for Niagara College – not only for her pastry skills but also for her unbelievable positive attitude during the whole event.”
Craig Youdale, Chair Academic of Niagara College’s Canadian Food and Wine Institute, said Calsavara’s medal was a win for her and Niagara College.
“To be on the podium after competing against the best apprentices in the country is great for our college,” said Youdale. “Brittany’s accomplishment is a reflection of not only her mentors for the competition but of the overall training she gets here at the college. All her professors can take a small bit of credit in helping Brittany attain her great accomplishment.”
