Award is icing on the cake for baking student

Rebecca Radway considers herself lucky. That’s because she discovered her passion early in life.

At age 19, Radway is well on her way to becoming a professional baker. Her goal is to specialize in cake decorating and eventually run her own business.

Radway received the Lieutenant Governor’s silver medal for academic achievement at Vancouver Island University’s convocation ceremony Friday for students enrolled in Trades and Technology programs.

The award comes on the heels of her completing Level One of the Professional Baking program at VIU. She hopes to secure an apprenticeship this summer, and then apply for her Red Seal certification in three years.

Radway discovered her love of baking while enrolled in the cafeteria- training program at Ladysmith Secondary in grade 10. Teacher Melody Hadikin saw her potential and talent and took Radway under her wing.

“Ms. Hadikin took me on as an unofficial apprentice and taught me everything she knows,” said Radway. “She was a wonderful mentor and I learned so much from her.”

Radway continued learning about baking in grade 11 and 12 and signed up for VIU’s professional baking program immediately after graduation.

“I’ve loved the course,” she says enthusiastically. “It’s given me a chance to become more creative and expand on my previous knowledge.”

Radway says the key ingredients needed to be a great baker include patience and the willingness to learn. “You have to remain open to new ideas,” she says.

While in high school at Ladysmith Secondary, Radway devoted her time to baking and community service. She served as a Ladysmith Vice-Ambassador from April 2010 to 2011 and enjoyed the opportunity to travel around BC promoting her hometown.

Martin Barnett, Chair of VIU’s professional baking program, says Radway is a terrific student and talented young baker.

“She works really hard and is an excellent team player,” said Barnett. “After she made her first wedding cake in class, two individuals saw her work and commissioned her to create their wedding cakes. There’s no doubt in my mind she will go far pursuing her dream to be a professional cake decorator.”