Meet the Thrive in Wine Class of 2025
Congratulating those Pursuing Wine Education
We’re thrilled to introduce the Thrive in Wine Class of 2025—a group of ten exceptional professionals who have earned scholarships to study with Bibendum’s WSET-accredited training team.
This programme, created in partnership with Bibendum Wine, continues to advance our mission of driving racial equity across the Hospitality, Food & Drinks industries.
A Competitive and Inspiring Selection Process
Following an overwhelming response from across the UK hospitality sector, we carefully selected ten recipients. These individuals reflect a diverse range of roles—from bartenders and chefs to operations managers and business directors.
Each winner demonstrated a strong commitment to expanding their wine knowledge and using it to grow their careers and businesses within the hospitality and drinks industries.
WSET Level 2 Scholars
The following recipients will embark on the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines:
- Asia Diaz – Event and Bar Consultant (Self-employed)
- Claudia McKenzie – General Manager, Parks Edge Bar and Kitchen
- Rahim Bamba – Front of House, Brat Shoreditch
- Renee Banks-Delvecchio – Supervisor, Mountain
- Russel Burgess – Director, Wet and Dry UK
- Sienna Chin-Crutchfield – Operations Manager, Natty’s Jerk
- Syed Hakim Noor – Chef, Duda Diner
- Tyrese Lofum – Head Bartender, The Standard
WSET Level 3 Scholars
In addition, two professionals will pursue the more advanced WSET Level 3 Award in Wines:
- Vikran Mertia – Manager, Streets Margate
- Zaloren Gonzalez Fontes – Sommelier, Los Mochis
A Toast to Their Future
We are incredibly proud to champion these individuals as they take their next steps in wine education. This initiative represents progress in removing barriers to career progression across hospitality.
To explore this topic further, read our upcoming February 2025 report: Careers in Hospitality – Removing Barriers to Progression.
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