Master the Art of Sake for Professional Excellence: SSA Certification Courses.
Elevate your professional standing in the hospitality or import industry with SSA's comprehensive Sake Courses. Our expert instructors will guide you through the intricacies of sake tasting, appreciation, and the vital skill of food pairing. By sampling a curated selection of premium sakes and completing the program, you'll earn the globally recognized Sake Sommelier certification – a mark of true expertise and a powerful tool for career advancement and business credibility.
Elevate your professional standing in the hospitality or import industry with SSA's comprehensive Sake Courses. Our expert instructors will guide you through the intricacies of sake tasting, appreciation, and the vital skill of food pairing. By sampling a curated selection of premium sakes and completing the program, you'll earn the globally recognized Sake Sommelier certification – a mark of true expertise and a powerful tool for career advancement and business credibility.
About SSA Certified sake course
The Sake Sommelier Association (SSA) stands as the oldest and most influential non-Japanese authority dedicated to the global appreciation of sake.
Based in London, UK, for over two decades, the SSA has pioneered sake education and awareness through dynamic initiatives, including our renowned Sake Sommelier courses and prestigious regional Sake Challenge events. Our flagship program, the Certified Sake Sommelier, officially accredits successful students as Sake Sommeliers®.
The SSA operates on three core pillars:
With a presence spanning six continents and a vast network of educational franchises, the SSA has empowered over ten thousand students worldwide. Our dedicated Sake Educators share a passion for sake, driving our mission to spread its joy and cultural significance across the globe.
Based in London, UK, for over two decades, the SSA has pioneered sake education and awareness through dynamic initiatives, including our renowned Sake Sommelier courses and prestigious regional Sake Challenge events. Our flagship program, the Certified Sake Sommelier, officially accredits successful students as Sake Sommeliers®.
The SSA operates on three core pillars:
- Education: We offer a comprehensive curriculum, from the foundational Introductory Sake Professional to the world-class Master Sake Sommelier qualification.
- Challenge: We host the Sake Challenge, a global competition that celebrates and recognizes excellence in sake brewing.
- Competition: We foster and showcase the world's most talented Sake Sommeliers through competitions like the Sake Sommelier of the Year.
With a presence spanning six continents and a vast network of educational franchises, the SSA has empowered over ten thousand students worldwide. Our dedicated Sake Educators share a passion for sake, driving our mission to spread its joy and cultural significance across the globe.
Meet your sake educators
Perth's Leading Expert
Master Sake Sommelier /President ASSF & Principal PERTH WA
Introducing Sandra Gwee: Perth's Premier Sake Educator®
Sandra Gwee is Perth's first Certified Sake Educator® and a dedicated sake scholar. Passionate about fostering a deep appreciation for sake in Australia, she brings over a decade of experience in education, collaboration, and a genuine love for this refined beverage.
With extensive experience in sake events and strong connections to Japanese and international breweries, Sandra offers expert education and business coaching. Her team of certified Sake Educators® provides a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical market insights.
Unlock Your Sake Potential with SSA Courses in Australia
Under Sandra's guidance, the SSA courses in Australia offer a transformative learning experience, combining online convenience with engaging in-person sessions. Gain in-depth sake knowledge and essential business skills to thrive in the industry.
Join Sandra Gwee and discover the fascinating world of sake!
Master Sake Sommelier /President ASSF & Principal PERTH WA
Introducing Sandra Gwee: Perth's Premier Sake Educator®
Sandra Gwee is Perth's first Certified Sake Educator® and a dedicated sake scholar. Passionate about fostering a deep appreciation for sake in Australia, she brings over a decade of experience in education, collaboration, and a genuine love for this refined beverage.
With extensive experience in sake events and strong connections to Japanese and international breweries, Sandra offers expert education and business coaching. Her team of certified Sake Educators® provides a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical market insights.
Unlock Your Sake Potential with SSA Courses in Australia
Under Sandra's guidance, the SSA courses in Australia offer a transformative learning experience, combining online convenience with engaging in-person sessions. Gain in-depth sake knowledge and essential business skills to thrive in the industry.
Join Sandra Gwee and discover the fascinating world of sake!
Secretary ASSF & SSA Introductory Sake Professional Trainer (Sydney) Sake Sommelier & Wine Consultant Meet Guy Vaillant: Passionate Sake Educator Originally from Belgium and a 35-year veteran of Australia's beverage scene, Guy Vaillant's fascination with sake ignited after learning about the meticulous rice cultivation process. When his company began offering sake seven years ago, he immersed himself in its intricacies. With a background in European fine dining and a founder of the NSW Sommelier Association, Guy recognized the need for sake expertise in Australia. He's since dedicated himself to educating others, offering tastings and private sessions to share his deep knowledge of sake tasting and food pairing. Fluent in Belgium, French and English. Handpicked by Sandra for the Kodawari Sake education team, Guy brings extensive experience and genuine enthusiasm. He aims to enrich the learning experience for all sake enthusiasts, covering brewing, styles, and food pairings. Guy is committed to inspiring a new generation of sake lovers. Join him on an engaging journey into the world of sake! 
SSA Sake Sommelier & ASSF member Trainer: Brisbane Romana’s journey into sake education is built on years of hands-on experience across the globe. From her early management days with Audi GmbH in Germany to her leadership roles at iconic Australian spots like the Marriott and Hard Rock Cafe, she has spent over a decade learning what makes the hospitality industry tick. Handpicked by Sandra for the Kodawari sake education team. While her background is extensive, she remains a student at heart, currently refining her own skills through advanced sommelier training—meaning she understands exactly what it’s like to be in your shoes. What sets Romana apart is her trilingual background; being fluent in English, French, and German allows her to bring a unique, international lens to the classroom. Despite her deep professional roots, she is incredibly easy to talk to. She believes that learning about sake should be as enjoyable as sharing a bottle with friends, and she prioritises creating a space where every student feels comfortable asking questions. A true fan of Japanese culture and a dedicated "foodie," Romana’s approach to teaching is grounded in balance. Her favourite food is "Haidilao hot pot, the spicier the better" When she isn’t sharing her knowledge, she’s likely practising yoga or focusing on self-care—values she brings into her teaching to ensure a relaxed and focused environment. Romana is here to help you navigate the world of sake with confidence. Whether you’re a hospitality pro or a curious beginner, she is a fantastic addition to your learning journey as Brisbane takes its sake scene to the next level. |
Vice President ASSF & SSA Sake Sommelier Course Trainer (Sydney)
Advanced Sake Sommelier & Importer Meet Tom Hart: Dedicated Sake Advocate Tom Hart is a key figure in Sydney's sake scene, driven by a deep passion for this Japanese beverage. His journey truly began as the Sake Buyer at The Oak Barrel, where he revitalized their sake selection during challenging times, curating nearly 100 varieties and organizing educational events. Handpicked by Sandra for the Kodawari sake education team, Tom furthered his knowledge by completing the SSA's Sake Sommelier Course. Driven by a desire to share unique flavors, Tom has launched his own sake importation company, focusing on bringing the distinctive tastes of Kyushu sake, shochu, and fruit liqueurs to Australia. Tom's commitment embodies the spirit of kodawari, continuously striving for excellence in sake education and enriching the appreciation of sake in Australia. Join him to explore the captivating world of sake! 
SSA Advanced Sake Sommelier & ASSF member.
Trainer: Adelaide For students looking to take their next step, Yi Sun offers more than just technical knowledge—he provides a living roadmap for success. As a former student who sat exactly where you are sitting now, Yi understands the unique challenges of building a career in a new industry. He is here to show you that a certification isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a tool that can help reshape a local market. Handpicked by Sandra for the Kodawari sake education team. Having successfully transitioned from a Master’s in Wine Business and wine production into founding Ine Sake, Yi can teach you how to translate "sake talk" into "business talk." He can show you how to leverage your existing skills—whether you come from hospitality, retail, or a completely different field—to find your own niche. For those new to the industry or to Australia, Yi’s journey is proof that being the "new kid on the block" is a powerful position to be in when you have the right training and a modest, dedicated approach. He can guide you through the practicalities of the industry: how to talk to venue owners, how to curate a list that actually sells, and how to build a reputation based on genuine service. By sharing the reality of what it takes to launch an import business and navigate a trilingual in Mandarin and English, Yi empowers you to take the "sake reins" in your own city. He is here to help you turn your passion for Japanese culture into a professional reality, ensuring that you leave this course not just with knowledge, but with the vision to lead. |
international events of sake excellence
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