JOBB Completes Enrollment for the Second Baking Training Program
The "Ruifeng Vocational Empowerment" (JOBB) Special Fund, jointly initiated by the Shanghai Ruifeng Urban Public Welfare Development Center and the Shanghai Soong Ching Ling Foundation, has recently completed the enrollment for its second baking training program.
Continuing JOBB's founding philosophy, the second phase of the baking training remains focused on empowering disadvantaged groups. Through high-quality training in French baking and pastry making, combined with internship support and career guidance, the program helps participants enhance their employment competitiveness.
This phase particularly targets two groups:
Students from remote regions
Students with special needs in urban areas
By equipping them with baking skills, the program promotes ethnic integration in border regions while supporting underprivileged students in urban settings, broadening their social exposure and career options.
Our Trainees
The second phase of training, set to begin in February, has enrolled 12 students, including:
7 students from Zepu County, Xinjiang
3 students from Shanghai Pudong Special Education School
1 student from Ganlin Junior Vocational Technical School
1 student diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome
Additionally, three students from the first cohort—Shi Wenyun, Chen Jingyu, and Teng Xiongzhen—have been invited to continue their training in this phase. This decision was made to help them consolidate their skills and gain further practical experience.
Learning Together: Inclusion, Trust, and Growth
Through our first training phase, we discovered that basic baking training can significantly boost the confidence and social skills of individuals with special needs, such as Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, and autism. We were delighted to see these students gradually open up and embrace social interaction. At the same time, their unique perspectives provided us with pure and inspiring insights into their world.
For the second phase, JOBB will continue its partnership with Ganlin Junior Vocational Technical School and collaborate with Pudong Special Education School, reinforcing skill training and social integration for individuals with special needs as a key direction of the JOBB initiative.
In early December, teachers and students from Pudong Special Education School visited the JOBB baking classroom to experience the atmosphere of French baking and the rhythm of the JOBB program. This visit planted a small seed in the hearts of some students, inspiring them to explore the fascinating world of baking and pastries.
As precision in measurements and calculations is crucial for basic baking, mathematical proficiency was a key evaluation criterion for applicants. To assess their suitability for the JOBB program, we conducted a written test and home visits as part of the selection process. Among the applicants, some had already won awards in Chinese pastry competitions, and we eagerly anticipate the fusion of Chinese pastry craftsmanship with French baking techniques.
Fostering Ethnic Integration Through Baking
During the first phase of the JOBB program, students from Kashgar, Xinjiang demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and potential for learning. They treasured this opportunity to receive professional baking training in Shanghai and were always willing to invest extra time to learn more.
Recognizing this enthusiasm, Ruifeng Charity has expanded its recruitment efforts in Kashgar for the second phase, offering more students the chance to learn baking skills. Through vocational training, JOBB aims to support the development of the cultural and tourism industries in Xinjiang while providing tangible career opportunities.
A Passion for Baking and Sharing
To excel in baking, one must have a genuine passion for food. Sharing one’s culinary creations and gathering feedback for continuous improvement is an essential trait of a skilled baker.
Many of our applicants already have a background in Chinese cooking or pastry making. During the interviews, one applicant, Abdunabi Rozmat (ئابدۇنەبى روزىمەت), shared his love for Xinjiang pilaf, while another, Anwar Osman (ئەنۋەر ئوسمان), expressed his preference for his hometown’s signature lamb skewers. The key to both dishes lies in the skillful use of fats, a principle that also plays a crucial role in French baking.
“Good barbecue makes for great company,
Today we feast, tomorrow we gain weight.”
Osman also shared a lighthearted saying from his hometown, adding a touch of humor to the interview. Moments like these made the selection process both insightful and enjoyable.
A Journey of Courage and Determination
Leaving home and traveling over 5,000 kilometers from Xinjiang to Shanghai to study baking is a significant leap of faith for these 17- to 18-year-old Uyghur students. Their willingness to learn and adapt was a major factor in our evaluation process.
During the interviews, some students eagerly talked about their entrepreneurial dreams. Others proudly listed their signature dishes with enthusiasm, some vividly described their experiences helping at their family’s “Bazar” (the Uyghur word for “market”). A few even recited detailed knowledge about Shanghai’s geography and cultural landmarks—proof of their anticipation and curiosity about their new learning environment.
Looking Ahead: Let’s JOBB the Future!
With the enrollment for the second phase now complete, our commitment to public welfare continues. Through vocational training and career empowerment, JOBB remains dedicated to creating opportunities and fostering social inclusion.
Let’s JOBB the future! 🚀