Six Bermudian bartenders are to travel to London on Thursday for a six-week training programme at the prestigious European Bartender School.

They are the first cohort of Bacardi’s new Hospitality Accelerator Programme, an advanced training initiative that is designed to elevate industry professionals and strengthen Bermuda’s hospitality sector.

In collaboration with the Department of Workforce Development, Bacardi said it is introducing this next-level programme tailored for bartenders already working in the industry, further reinforcing career development and industry growth.

Six hospitality establishments have partnered with Bacardi to support this year’s cohort by nominating their staff to participate in the programme.

Heading to London are Tez Terry (Grotto Bay), Davonte Thompson (Rock & Barrel), Izrael Pearman (Pickled Onion), Tinisha Pearman (The Loren), Keishaun Samuels (Hamilton Princess & Beach Club) and Raguel Dill III (St Regis Bermuda Resort).

The curriculum includes four weeks of advanced spirits education and mixology training, followed by two weeks of professional development workshops.

Bacardi said graduates will earn an internationally recognised diploma, equipping them with world-class expertise and leadership skills, and positioning them as future leaders in Bermuda’s hospitality industry.

“The introduction of the Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Programme strengthens career pathways and ensures that participants receive world-class training while maintaining ties with their employers,” said Douglas Mello, Bacardi Ltd managing director.

“By investing in our talent and collaborating directly with hospitality leaders, we are enhancing Bermuda’s service industry and creating more opportunities for long-term professional growth.”

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said: “The Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Programme offers transformative opportunities, equipping Bermudians with world-class training in mixology, customer engagement and bar management to advance their careers in the hospitality sector.

“This enhanced, employer-led approach ensures that participants gain internationally recognised certifications and secure real-world experience through structured employment commitments.

“Our ongoing collaboration with Bacardi highlights the strength of public-private partnerships, and reinforces the Government’s commitment to developing Bermuda’s hospitality workforce and creating sustainable career opportunities.”

The initiative follows two cohorts of Shake Your Future, a free professional bartender training programme for underemployed and unemployed young adults created by Bacardi.