Franz Schwegler, a former hotelier at a four-star superior hotel in Zermatt, was one of the first senior experts to arrive in Rwanda after the opening of the Sangira Hotel Talent School. With his expertise, he helped establish the "Talents Bakery" and the restaurant. In his report, he recounts the challenges, but also
of the successes he experienced together with the local people.
Report by Franz Schwegler: Establishment of the Sangira School
In November and December 2022, I worked as the first senior expert at the Sangira Hotel Talent School in Nyamasheke. My focus was on practical training in the areas of kitchen, service, housekeeping, and reception. The school had just opened, and my goal was to set up a simple kitchen and restaurant in a short time. With a budget of CHF 3,000, we accomplished this in less than two weeks.
Impressions and challenges
Like many others, I had prejudices when I first traveled to Rwanda. But the country pleasantly surprised me – despite the poverty, the people radiate an incredible joy for life. Together with Jackie, Bobito, Christian (the school principal), and the local team, we were able to teach the first practical lessons in just a few weeks, which I considered a great success. It was especially wonderful to witness the people's daily joy – whether during singing and prayer before school started or during practical work in the kitchen.
The importance of Swiss support
Every young person who graduates from the Sangira Hotel Talent School with a diploma and finds a job is a success. Since the school was founded in October 2022, approximately 350 young people have already received this opportunity. This demonstrates how important international support, including from Switzerland, is for the project.
Learn more about the Sangira Project in our bread newspaper.
Swiss carrot cake – reinterpreted in Rwanda
A classic Swiss pastry, the carrot cake, also finds its place in Rwanda – with a special twist. Since almonds and hazelnuts are hard to come by, the bakers at "Talents Bakery" have found creative alternatives to give the cake a unique flavor. The result? A delicious carrot cake that combines Swiss tradition and Rwandan innovation. Try it – you'll be amazed!
Recipe
- 1 kg grated carrot
- 1 kg granulated sugar
- 600 ml vegetable oil / butter
- 10 whole eggs
- 600 g wheat flour
- 20 g baking powder
- 200 g chopped nuts (grilled almonds, peanuts, walnuts)
