At Berwick communities, supporting team members in their personal and professional growth isn’t just an investment in their future - it’s a recipe for enhancing resident experiences, too. When staff are empowered and inspired, it shines through in everything they do.
That support can take many forms - from encouraging team members to pursue their education, to helping them achieve long-term career goals. And sometimes, it leads to exciting new opportunities far beyond the workplace.
For Stephanie Martinolich, executive chef at Berwick by the Sea in Campbell River, that support recently led to a once-in-a-lifetime experience: an invitation to attend a prestigious women-only culinary event in Miami, Florida.
“Out of 32 women nominated across North America, I was one of just two from Canada. It was such an honour to be part of the event and to have the opportunity to learn, cook and connect with other women in my field from around the world,” Martinolich says.
The four-day event featured a variety of local experiences, seminars, motivational and guest speakers, and collaborative culinary challenges.
“One of the group activities involved breaking into teams to create a four-course meal based on a specific protein and a region of the world,” she says. “The camaraderie was amazing - it was so much fun to work together on unique dishes and then try them afterward. It was incredibly inspiring to learn from one another.”
Martinolich returned from the event re-energized and full of ideas, ready to bring her new skills and inspiration back to the residents at Berwick by the Sea.
“I left with a fresh spark and ideas I can’t wait to bring into our kitchen,” she says. “Trying new dishes with residents, getting their input, and evolving together - that’s the most rewarding part of my job.”
Learn more about Berwick Retirement communities online at berwickretirement.com or book a tour with Loren today at Berwick by the Sea in Campbell River.
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