The food and hospitality industry in Pakistan has experienced steady growth in recent years. However, for many young people, especially women, breaking into the sector remains challenging without access to professional training or established networks.
Addressing this gap, National Foods Limited has launched the second edition of National Foodpreneur in collaboration with MasterClass Pakistan. This initiative offers practical culinary training and business fundamentals to help aspiring chefs turn their skills into sustainable careers or small businesses.
The core objective of National Foodpreneur is to equip motivated individuals with the technical skills, industry knowledge, and internationally recognized certification they need to compete in Pakistan’s expanding food and hospitality sector, which continues to create new opportunities for income generation and economic inclusion.
A Vision Beyond the Kitchen
When National Foodpreneur was first launched, the goal was to convert culinary passion into sustainable livelihood. During the six-month curriculum, students in the first cohort received training in culinary techniques as well as essential knowledge in food marketing, health and safety, and financial management. This well-rounded approach is designed to help graduates secure jobs in professional kitchens, transition into restaurant management, or establish small businesses as independent food entrepreneurs.
Beyond skills training, the program reflects the company’s broader commitment to using its industry leadership to create practical social impact. “National Foodpreneur is about the love of good, healthy food,” said Mr. Zahid Majeed, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, National Foods Limited. “As a leader in food tradition, National Foods preserves and continues to evolve its proud culinary heritage. With a rich legacy of over 50 years, National Foods continues with the vision of creating food that enriches the lives of people everywhere – with excellence, emphasizing nutrition and hygiene, and empowering aspiring chefs, especially women. Building on a successful pilot, National Foodpreneur 2.0 solidifies our commitment to socioeconomic uplift and community development.”
Real Impact: Alumni Businesses and Jobs
A notable aspect of the program has been its impact on supporting women’s participation in Pakistan’s formal economy. Among the first cohort, several graduates are now operating home-based businesses that have gained recognition in their communities.
Meanwhile, other graduates have secured practical work experience with respected employers. Some are interning at National Foods Limited. while others have joined hospitality brands including Beach Luxury Hotel Izakaya Experience, Dbrewd Coffee & More, and Lal Qila Karachi.
This mix of entrepreneurship and industry placements demonstrates how National Foodpreneur provides multiple pathways for graduates to build their skills, generate income, and contribute to Pakistan’s culinary workforce.
A Sustainable Investment in Talent
Based on the pilot’s results, the program has the second edition. National Foodpreneur 2.0 will train 20 new students selected on merit, with five full scholarships awarded to deserving candidates to ease financial limitations some may have.
Participants will work towards the Certificate in Culinary Artistry (CICA), an internationally recognized credential that strengthens employability in Pakistan and abroad.
As Pakistan’s food service industry continues to expand, initiatives and programs like the National Foodpreneur contribute to a stronger, more diverse talent pool that can help raise industry standards and drive sustainable growth. By combining culinary artistry with relevant business skills, the program provides young people with a foundation to secure employment or create jobs for others through their enterprises.
