Anna* is always our go-to for pastry! With her eye for detail and an Albanian upbringing that meant she mastered the intricate delicacy of pastry from an early age, we’re forever grateful to her for introducing us to her impressive Spinach Byrek (recipe here).
Anna made her very first byrek at the age of twelve. After watching her mum make them for years, it was finally her turn. She remembers the challenge of stretching the dough to an exquisitely fine layer and how the scent of white onions filled the whole house. It all came together for the end result of delicious and perfectly flaky byrek.
As the years passed, Anna experienced some painful, life-changing times – and eventually decided to move to the UK for a fresh start. She began to seek out ways to work and support her child, but the doors remained firmly closed. Following a recommendation from a support worker, she discovered Luminary Bakery, and we’re so glad that she did!
‘I wanted to learn, because when I came to this country I didn’t know a lot, not even English. But I wanted to change our lives for the better. In life, you meet people who make all the difference. Before I came on the course, I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I had two hands and a child to look after, but nothing was happening. Then I met Alice [Luminary’s Founder] and she said, “You want something. Let’s make it happen together!” That was the motivation I needed. After coming to Luminary, I started to accept that maybe I could do it. And now, I dream!’