Bacardi has opened applications for the fifth Bermuda cohort of its Shake Your Future bartender training programme.

The free programme, run with the Department of Workforce Development, is aimed at unemployed and underemployed Bermudians seeking work and career development in hospitality.

Successful applicants will travel to London in February before starting professional training at the European Bartender School in March 2027. The course includes mixology, free-pour techniques, cocktail preparation and bar management, along with pre- and post-training support in Bermuda.

Shake Your Future began globally in 2018 and was introduced in Bermuda in 2023. Bacardi said 30 Bermudians have completed the first four local cohorts.

Douglas Mello, managing director of Bacardi International Ltd, said the programme helps participants build careers while supporting the hospitality sector’s need for trained local staff.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said the partnership offers Bermudians internationally recognised training and practical industry experience.

Bacardi and the Department of Workforce Development will hold an information session on Monday, October 19, where prospective applicants can hear from previous graduates and learn about the selection process.

Applications open on October 19 through Bermuda Job Connect and close on November 2. Information is also available through the Instagram account @thebacardiguy.