Larry Bergeron

Cooking and Baking Advisor

2011

Partner: Hoa Sua School for Disadvantaged Youth

The Cause I Support

Despite a recent global economic slowdown, Vietnam has achieved remarkable economic growth in recent years resulting in a significant increase in living standards among the population. In order for Vietnam to keep pace with the growth, particularly in the rapidly growing tourism industry and service sector, vocational training for youth has become increasingly vital to Vietnam’s economic and social development. The Hoa Sua School for Disadvantaged Youth has developed an innovative model to help reduce poverty in Vietnam and meet the demands of the tourism and service sectors. This is accomplished by providing free vocational education for disadvantaged youth and youth with disabilities3, and practical skills-based training with close links to local enterprises using an effective, sustainable business model.

For the full situation analysis, read the case study on Hoa Sua School for Disadvantaged Youth.

My bio

I am a Chef with over 30 years of experience in the industry. In my everyday work, I share my experience as a cooking and baking instructor at Nova Scotia Community College. But as a Leave for Change® volunteer, I put my cooking and teaching skills to new use, working with staff and teachers at Hoa Sua’s School for Disadvantaged Youth in Vietnam. This innovative school provides free, skills-based training for disadvantaged youth and helps meet the demand of tourism and service industries for skilled workers.

During my volunteer assignment, I helped the school improve its cooking and baking curriculum, customer service, and marketing strategies. At the same time, my blog raised awareness among my colleagues, students, and personal networks. After my return to Canada, I continued to be an advocate for international development by sharing my story.