The SM unga bagare, organized by Sveriges bagare & konditorer (Sweden's Bakers & Confectioners), is Sweden's foremost competition for young bakers under 24 years old. The final included talents from all over Sweden competing for the prestigious title of Swedish junior champion. A place in the upcoming junior national baking team, which will compete in the World Championships, was at stake.
The finalists had five hours to demonstrate their skills in various tasks during the competition, though the specific tasks or subcategories involved have not been disclosed. Alicia Karlsson, 19, from Gävle, won first place. She said, "An indescribable feeling!
An indescribable feeling! I didn't believe that. I hoped and dreamed of course to win and when I won two of the subcategories I started to hope for the podium for real. To win SM unga bagare is enormously big and I really look forward to the year in the junior national baking team.
I didn't believe that. I hoped and dreamed of course to win and when I won two of the subcategories I started to hope for the podium for real. " The exact dates or timeline of the competition remain unclear.
Noel Sävström, 19, came in second place, and Lisa Kündig, 19, came in third. Alma Ekberg from Jönköping placed fourth, just off the podium, but won the category for best bread. The top four finalists automatically get a place in the junior national baking team.
Alma Ekberg currently lives in Gothenburg and works at Berzelii Choklad, and she has big dreams in the profession, including being responsible for desserts at the Nobel dinner. The specific plans or schedule for the junior national baking team's participation in the World Championships have not been announced.