A Rwandan Journey to Craft Beer Mastery in Maine
Ken’s remarkable journey from Kigali, Rwanda, to South Portland, Maine, is a testament to the unifying spirit of craft beer culture. Having graduated high school in 2018 and moved to South Portland a year later, Ken was eager to immerse himself in his new community. He soon discovered an innovative internship program introduced by Claudette Ndayininahaze, co-founder of In Her Presence, that promised a deep dive into the vibrant world of craft beer.
For Ken, who speaks three languages—Kinyarwanda, French, and English—switching to English in a professional setting was a new experience. The internship was initially daunting, with a wide array of craft beers to memorize, coupled with mastering the pace of a bustling tasting room. Under the mentorship of Zoe, a seasoned employee at the taproom, Ken navigated these challenges with growing confidence. Zoe reflected on her own learning journey, sharing, “Not only did Ken gain a lot from his time here, but I grew immensely as a first-time mentor.”
From Bussing Tables to Pouring Pints: A Comprehensive Internship Experience
Ken started his internship by acquainting himself with the taproom space, learning the ropes by bussing tables and understanding the flow of operations. This foundational step quickly evolved into a more complex role in the beer cooler, where he managed inventory processes and learned the logistics of supply management. His next endeavor as a merchandise handler helped him hone his customer service skills at the register, engaging with guests and understanding their preferences.
The ultimate challenge awaited Ken at the taps, a role he embraced with enthusiasm. Supported by his newly acquired Certified Beer Server Cicerone accreditation, which he diligently studied for during his internship, Ken quickly adapted to recommending and pouring beers tailored to guests’ tastes. Zoe proudly noted, “Ken has the ability to connect with patrons regardless of their craft beer expertise, ensuring they find a brew they love.”
Bridging Cultures in the Craft Beer Community
Ken’s multilingual skills added a rich layer to the taproom’s guest experiences, as he often engaged with patrons who spoke French, forging memorable connections. His diverse background and dedication not only enriched his own understanding of beer culture but also enhanced the inclusive atmosphere of the tasting room. Ken’s story exemplifies the welcoming and collaborative nature of the U.S. craft beer scene, where diverse perspectives create a vibrant community.
For more personalized reviews and exciting craft beer journeys, explore BreweriesNearMe.us to find hidden gems, buzzing taprooms, and exceptional brewery experiences across America.
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