The Diageo Bar Academy (DBA), a global initiative run by Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC, a Diageo company, hosted the Bartenders Connect event at No. 19 Restaurant in Accra recently.

This initiative is part of Diageo’s global mission to elevate the craft of bartending, empowering professionals with the expertise, confidence, and tools to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

The session featured a standout Don Julio masterclass led by Head of Training at DBA Africa, Ryan Duvenage, who guided participants through the intricacies of crafting world-class cocktails. 

This immersive session emphasized the balance between technique and creativity, underscoring Diageo Bar Academy's commitment to raising the bar on hospitality standards.

Following the masterclass, a Cocktail Challenge highlighted the talents of 10 bartenders. George Sedzio from Illona claimed 1st place, winning a GHS 2,000 prize. Michael Senanu Kofi Bedzrah from Levels Bar secured 2nd place with a GHS 1,500 prize, while Ophelia Dakorah from NsuomNam took 3rd place, earning a GHS 1,000 prize.

Their achievements highlighted the innovative spirit of the participants, a core value of the Diageo Bar Academy, and demonstrated their potential to lead the future of the bartending community in Ghana.

Beyond the competition, the event offered an open discussion session where bartenders and judges shared insights on navigating challenges in the industry, maintaining professionalism, and upholding the highest standards of service. This segment reinforced Guinness Ghana’s commitment to fostering industry-wide excellence and innovation in hospitality.

Guinness Ghana plays a significant role in enhancing the professional development of the bartending community through its support of the Diageo Bar Academy.

 As part of Diageo’s world-class portfolio, Guinness, along with other premium brands such as Johnnie Walker, Baileys, Don Julio, and Smirnoff, provides bartenders with the unique opportunity to deepen their product knowledge and refine their craft using some of the most iconic and beloved drinks in the world.

The Diageo Bar Academy continues to call on bartenders across the world to participate in its comprehensive training programs. 

With access to exclusive masterclasses, e-learning modules, and certifications, bartenders can elevate their skills and careers, becoming certified professionals in the process. 

The Diageo Bar Academy is a world-leading bartender training platform that equips professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in the craft of bartending.

DBA provides a global community for bartenders to connect, grow, and succeed through access to expert training, masterclasses, and industry-leading certifications.

 About Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC 

Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC, a subsidiary of Diageo, is one of Ghana’s leading beverage companies. With a proud heritage of over 60 years in the market, Guinness Ghana champions quality, innovation, and community development. 

Through partnerships such as the Diageo Bar Academy, Guinness Ghana supports the professional development of local talent in the hospitality industry.