Seven young Bermudians toasted their success last week after they graduated from Bacardi’s Shake Your Future programme.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Economy and Labour said that the programme offered the participants training at the internationally recognised European Bartender School and some on-the-job training.

The graduates included Seth Somner, Kneiko Brimmer, Detre Virgil, Kierra Lee, Dante Trott, Sarzjae Minors and Sahlay Govia.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said that he was delighted to celebrate the participants and the programme, which will help to bolster the island’s hospitality and tourism industry.

“The Shake Your Future initiative directly aligns with Bermuda's Youth Employment strategy by increasing local training opportunities and promoting pathways to sustainable careers and employment,” Mr Hayward said.

“I applaud these young people for stepping up and making the most of this fantastic opportunity. I attribute the success of this programme to strong collaborations with the Bermuda Government, Bacardi, educational institutions and local business partners.

“These young people now have the tools to be successful in the hospitality industry as world-class bartenders and mixologists."

Douglas Mello, Bacardi Limited managing director, said the Shake Your Future initiative offered a “transformative programme” to prepare young people for the hospitality industry.

“We have seen the impact it has had on the seven graduates and are proud to collaborate with the Department of Workforce Development to make this inaugural programme a success,” he added.

“We are committed to giving back to our community and by combining resources, expertise, innovation and sustainable funding, partnerships like ours have the power to deliver community programmes that positively impact our society.”