Universal Robina Corporation (URC) Flour, in partnership with Tekton Social Development Association, Inc., has launched “Knead and Lead: Train the Trainers Program,” a livelihood-driven initiative aimed at equipping individuals with sustainable baking skills and empowering them to uplift their communities.
The program is designed to build a pipeline of certified community trainers from the Laguna and Metro Manila chapters of Missio Amare, who will eventually lead baking livelihood sessions in their respective areas. By developing local trainers, the initiative strengthens grassroots entrepreneurship while creating long-term, community-based income opportunities.
A Structured Path to Skills and Livelihood
“Knead and Lead” is implemented in three progressive phases:
- Commercial Baking (April 13): Participants were introduced to foundational baking processes and production-scale techniques.
- Technical Baking (April 27–30): Trainees advanced their skills through hands-on sessions focused on refining technical knowledge and baking competencies.
- Practical Demonstration (final phase): Participants will be assessed based on their ability to independently conduct and lead community training sessions.
This structured approach ensures that graduates are not only skilled bakers but also capable educators who can transfer knowledge effectively within their communities.
Building Trainers, Building Communities
Successful participants will receive a Certificate of Program Completion and gain entry into a recognized pool of trainers under URC Flour’s training arm, Baker John Academy. They will also be empowered to conduct workshops locally, expanding the program’s reach and impact.
Through its partnership with Missio Amare, URC Flour provides technical instructors, training modules, baking ingredients, and access to its dedicated training facility. The program is also anchored on clear impact targets, with a goal of reaching at least 300 community beneficiaries, ensuring that its outcomes extend beyond training into real-world livelihood creation.
Baking as a Path to Empowerment
Through “Knead and Lead,” URC Flour reinforces its commitment to inclusive growth by turning baking into a practical tool for empowerment. The initiative reflects a broader mission to share industry expertise and resources with communities, helping individuals build sustainable livelihoods while strengthening local entrepreneurship ecosystems.
