Gurgaon: In a first for its operations in India, Italian professional oven manufacturer Unox has launched a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at equipping underprivileged youth with employable skills in baking and hospitality.
The programme, titled “Baking a Better Tomorrow”, was rolled out in collaboration with Learn for Life, an NGO working to empower children and young people from low-income backgrounds through education and vocational training. The inaugural workshop was held on October 14 at the UNOX Experience Centre in Gurgaon, bringing together 30 students from various NGOs in Delhi associated with Learn for Life.
During the session, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of professional baking, working hands-on with Unox’s state-of-the-art commercial ovens — the same technology used by leading cafés, bakeries, and hotels worldwide. Unox’s team of chefs provided mentorship, aiming to instill both confidence and industry-relevant skills in the attendees.
“On World Food Day, our focus was simple: convert access to equipment into access to opportunity,” said Vikram Goel, Regional Director, Unox India & SEA. “We want to help young people imagine and prepare for careers in modern kitchens.”
The event was attended by Mr Davide Colombo, Deputy Head of the Economic and Innovation Department at the Embassy of Italy in New Delhi, who served as Chief Guest. Colombo praised the initiative, calling it “inspiring to witness an Italian company in India combine innovation and education to empower youth,” and highlighting the potential for technology and skills training to shape future careers.
Programme leads from Learn for Life, Michael and Nicole, emphasised that the project was “not about handouts, but about empowerment,” describing the workshop as “a chance for participants to learn, create, and take their first step towards sustainable futures in baking and hospitality.”
Answering to a question to Travellers’ World, Vikram also highlighted that the Indian market holds great potential for the industry. He mentioned that establishments ranging from medium to high-end food and beverage operations can benefit from using Unox products.
According to Unox India, “Baking a Better Tomorrow” is intended to be a long-term CSR commitment, with future workshops and skill-building programmes in the pipeline to support employability in the food and hospitality sector.
