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Supporting opportunity through work experience with Luminary

Hospitality has always been an industry built around people. Kitchens bring together individuals from different backgrounds, experiences and cultures, all working towards the same goal.

That’s why developing partnerships with organisations like Luminary Bakery has become an important part of what we do at BM Caterers.

Luminary works with women who have faced significant social and economic challenges, providing training, employment opportunities and a supportive community through baking and hospitality. As part of this partnership, we provide opportunities for participants to spend time in our kitchens gaining first-hand work experience, allowing them to practise the skills they have learned through the Luminary Bakery programme.

Creating a supportive kitchen environment

For many, this is their first introduction to a professional kitchen environment. Like any new setting, it can feel unfamiliar at first.

One of the things I always try to ensure is that the kitchen provides a supportive environment where people feel comfortable learning and asking questions.

During their time with us, they typically work on the pastry section, gaining insight into the production and service of a busy B&I kitchen. One of the real benefits is the variety of desserts we produce — giving them exposure to everything from simple bakery items through to more complex French pâtisserie.

Building confidence through experience

Hospitality can be a powerful industry for creating opportunity.

Kitchens are places where practical skills, work ethic and teamwork are valued above all else. For someone looking to rebuild confidence or gain new experience, that environment can be incredibly empowering.

These placements may only last a short time, but even a brief introduction to the industry can have a lasting impact.

Giving back as a team

For our team at BM, it’s also a valuable opportunity to give something back.

We assign team members to act as mentors during each placement, ensuring everything runs smoothly and that the experience is both supportive and meaningful. It’s important to us that every individual gets the most out of their time in the kitchen.

Looking ahead

Seeing someone leave with more confidence than when they arrived is something I find incredibly rewarding as a chef.

Partnerships like this are a small but important way we can help create opportunity, support individuals and contribute positively to the wider hospitality industry.