Welcome to another inspiring episode of Magazine St. Kitchen x Thrive presents Speak Greasy Season 2! In this episode, your host Gauri Devidayal is joined by Dina Weber, the innovative founder and chief baker at SAPA Bakery in Mysore. Join us as Dina shares her incredible journey from a German traveler to a beloved baker in Mysore, and learn about the passion, challenges, and triumphs that have defined her path.

Dina Weber’s story is one of adventure and passion for food. Originally from Germany, Dina came to India as a traveler and backpacker. Her love for food and desire to stay connected to it led her to various projects across the country, from working on permaculture farms to school kitchens and helping out in cafés and bakeries. For nearly two years, she switched projects every 1-3 months, gaining diverse experiences that would later shape her entrepreneurial journey.

After two years of traveling, Dina wanted to create something of her own. She heard about Mysore from a project owner in Leh and decided to give it a try. The slower pace of life in Mysore appealed to her, and she has now been living there for seven years. Starting from her home kitchen, Dina’s journey saw her moving to a small shared space behind an architect’s office and finally to a full-fledged café inside a heritage bungalow.

Dina’s philosophy for SAPA Bakery was simple yet profound: to give Mysore what it was missing and create a place she would be proud to visit. She began with bread and boulangerie products, even continuing through her pregnancy. The constant demand for her baked goods led her to move to a shared space, and eventually, she opened her own bakery just two weeks before the lockdown.

The lockdown period, though challenging, helped Dina build a strong community around her bakery. People appreciated the quality of her products, and as restrictions eased, SAPA Bakery saw a significant increase in customers, including those traveling from big cities just to visit her establishment. Dina had to move to a larger space, which came in the form of an 80-year-old Bangalore bungalow. She spent seven months renovating it while her business partner managed operations.

Dina is deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive workplace. At SAPA, 70% of the team comprises women, with many holding leadership roles. Dina values diverse experiences and believes in creating an environment where her team members can consider SAPA an integral part of their lives, not just a job. This philosophy has fostered a supportive and enriching workplace culture.

In this episode, Dina shares valuable insights into the bakery industry. She emphasizes the importance of meticulous accounting from the start and advises aspiring bakers to be prepared for the industry's challenges. Dina also discusses the significance of workshops, which have empowered many to start their own brands, contributing to a thriving bakery industry. She believes in small, continuous growth and reinvests significantly in her team, valuing their time and effort.

Dina’s vision for SAPA Bakery remains rooted in Mysore. She is not a fan of chains and believes that staying unique and localized gives her brand a special charm. Dina’s workshops continue to empower others, fostering a supportive bakery community that thrives on shared knowledge and resources.

Dina Weber’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and community. Whether you’re an aspiring baker or a business enthusiast, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice. Tune in to hear Dina’s inspiring journey, her thoughts on maintaining creativity amidst business growth, and her vision for the future of SAPA Bakery.

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