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Training platform targets diversity in the on-trade
By Owen BellwoodEducation platform Equal Measures and spirits training provider The Mixing Class have created a mentorship programme to increase diversity in the drinks industry.
Deano Moncrieffe founded the Equal Measures platform earlier this year
Equal Measures, which was founded by bartender Deano Moncrieffe earlier this year, aims to educate the hospitality industry on the importance of inclusivity and diversity.
Through its collaboration with spirits education provider The Mixing Class, Equal Measures will offer 30 candidates training through the Education and Mentorship Project. Participants from ethnic minority backgrounds will be enrolled on a skills programme, which includes a place on a WSET Spirits Level 2 course.
The programme will then select 10 candidates from each group for further mentorship sessions and a place on the WSET Spirits Level 3 course.
Moncrieffe said: “I am incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to help drive positive change in our industry through this long-term partnership with The Mixing Class.
“We are determined to help those who have had to face unfair barriers due to either the colour of their skin or lack of financial resources to further themselves and unlock their full potential.
“This is not a one-off, we will do this until we really do start to see an industry that is more reflective of society and true progression means everyone must play a part.”
The Equal Measures Education and Mentorship Project aims to offer underrepresented minorities the opportunity to add relevant training and qualifications to their CVs, meet people who can inspire their career, and challenge the biases of hiring practices in the hospitality industry.
Hannah Lanfear, founding director of The Mixing Class, added: “A key tenet of The Mixing Class is our belief that education should be used for the power of good. We are delighted to be working with Equal Measures to strive for greater diversity within hospitality, and to ensure a brilliant career in this fantastic industry is within the reach of all who dream of it.”
Applications for the Equal Measures Education and Mentorship Project will open in January 2021.