For Linda Deeb, baking has always been more than a hobby - it has been a passion. When she enrolled in the Certificate III in Baking at Kangan Institute, she wanted to build the skills and confidence to turn that passion into a career.
Today, she's already making that dream a reality.
Alongside raising her three children, Linda has launched her own home-based baking business, LuxeBakehouse.Co, where she creates custom baked goods to order while continuing to pursue her long-term goal of opening her own café. Her journey is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, determination, and the right training.
Recently, Linda's talent was recognised when she received the Judges' Award in Kangan Institute's Gingerbread House Competition, where graduating bakery students showcased their creativity, technical skills, and craftsmanship.
"I entered because I like to challenge myself," Linda said. "I didn't have a plan for my gingerbread house - it all came together while I was building it in the kitchen."
Winning the competition was an exciting and emotional moment.
"I was overwhelmed and very excited," she said.
Linda says she loved every moment of studying at Kangan Institute. Being surrounded by passionate teachers and supportive classmates made every day in the training kitchen an opportunity to learn and grow.
"The teachers were there for everything I asked about," she said. "I learned to be patient and take my time when working with dough and pastry."
Choosing Kangan Institute was an easy decision. Its convenient location close to home and her children's school made it possible to balance study with family life, while the hands-on training equipped her with practical skills she now uses every day in her own business.
For Linda, studying wasn't just about gaining a qualification - it gave her the confidence to take the next step and turn her passion into a business.
"My time at Kangan Institute has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The knowledge, practical skills, and support from the trainers have given me the confidence to grow as a qualified baker and turn my passion into my future café."
Her advice for anyone thinking about studying baking is simple:
"Believe in yourself and nothing can stop you from doing what you love most."
The Gingerbread House Competition, organised by bakery trainer Ruwan Colombage, gives students the opportunity to put their skills to the test in a creative and supportive environment. It encourages innovation, builds confidence and showcases the high standard of work produced by Kangan Institute's graduating bakers.
Congratulations once again to Linda on receiving the Judges' Award, and to Anisah Sankhulani, who was awarded the People's Choice Award. Their outstanding creations reflect the creativity, passion and talent of Kangan Institute's bakery students.
