Since completing her studies in hospitality and tourism management at Moneague College in May of this year, 24-year-old Kayasan Green has been actively seeking employment but to no avail.

However, instead of losing hope, Green has turned a talent for baking into a blooming business making a name for herself in Retirement, St Ann.

This as Green, who is also certified in commercial food preparation by the HEART/Trust NTA, has been baking and selling goods from her home.

“My neighbours told me that since I am not working I could bake and sell,” Green told the Jamaica Observer North East, adding that she took that advice and has become the caterer for the small rural community.

Whenever there is a birthday, wedding or anniversary, residents employ the service of the young woman who has been cooking since she was nine years old.

For Green, cake baking and decorating is more than a livelihood; it is something she is most passionate about.

“It is one of the ways I have fun. I enjoy baking and decorating,” she said.

Green also pointed out that the appreciation she receives for the work she does is also a big motivation to continue doing what she loves.

“It is fulfilling when people praise you. It gives me a feeling of joy,” Green said.

One of her biggest jobs was making a wedding cake for a community member who got married recently.

The eldest of four children, Green said she developed a love for the kitchen at age nine when she had to assist in preparing meals for her younger siblings. Since then the kitchen has become one of her favourite places around the home.

“From my mother got pregnant when I was nine years old I developed a passion for the kitchen because I had to help out, and then baking came along,” she explained.

It came as no surprise that food preparation was one of the subject areas she focused on while a student at Brown’s Town High School.

Green has also been assisting her mother in making potato puddings, a favourite for community members.

Green said the words of encouragement she receives from residents continues to fuel her passion.

“They say I have talent and that I should not stop,” Green said.

“Dem tell me ‘try build your own business because self-employed persons don’t get laid off,” Green said, adding that this is one piece of advice she intends to put into practice.

Green says she wants to become a pastry or executive chef.

– Renae Dixon