Tram finds the recipe for business success

Baking has always been about more than creating beautiful pastries for Tram, who sees it as a way to spark joy, build connections and create memorable everyday experiences through food.

That vision is coming to life at Ilo Bakehouse, a Scandinavian-inspired coffee and pastry venue Tram opened on Wynnum Esplanade with hospitality operator Daniel Bowles.

Combining specialty coffee, house-made baked goods and bayside views, Ilo – which means “joy” in Finnish - is a welcoming neighbourhood destination for the local community to connect.

Tram’s path to business ownership began with her experience in hospitality, where she discovered how much she valued working with people and creating positive experiences.

Wanting to broaden her skills and open career opportunities, she studied with TAFE Queensland, building the practical and business capabilities needed to take her ambitions further.

The Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping (FNS40222) strengthened her understanding of financial records and business operations, while a Certificate III in Patisserie (SIT31021) gave her the technical skills to turn a creative interest into a professional future.

“I decided to study the patisserie because I wanted to expand my skills within hospitality and explore the creative side of food and pastry,” Tram said.

“I have always enjoyed working with people, but I also wanted to challenge myself by learning something new and developing skills that could open up more opportunities for my future.”

Through hands-on training, Tram refined her pastry techniques, preparation and presentation skills, and learned to work efficiently in a professional kitchen.

Demonstrations, constructive feedback and encouragement from her teachers helped her build confidence and understand the standards expected by industry.

“My TAFE training gave me a strong foundation in the practical skills and knowledge I need to work in the baking industry,” she said.

“Having the opportunity to practise my skills and receive feedback from experienced teachers helped me understand what is expected in a professional environment.”

As her skills and confidence grew, Tram tested herself on the national stage, claiming a silver medal at WorldSkills Brisbane Region through patience, precision and countless hours of practice.

Drawing on guidance from her teachers and the composure she had developed in hospitality, Tram continued sharpening her consistency, timing and presentation under pressure.

“Winning a WorldSkills silver for baking is something I’m very proud of. It’s not just about the result - it represents how much I have grown since starting my studies and how far I have pushed myself.”

The experience strengthened her belief that learning never stops and inspired her to keep testing what she could achieve.

Tram is now channelling that experience, alongside her hospitality background, business knowledge and patisserie skills, into Ilo Bakehouse - creating the kind of venue she once imagined for her future.

“In 5–10 years, I hope to have my own successful baking business or bakery that reflects my personality and values,” Tram said.

“I would love it to be more than just a place to buy food - I want to create a space where people can come together, enjoy good products and feel part of a community.”

Tram’s journey demonstrates how practical training can turn ambition into momentum, giving students the capability and confidence to enter an industry, advance an existing career or build a business of their own.

By combining her experience with formal training in bookkeeping and patisserie, Tram has created a pathway that reflects her passion for baking, creativity and community.

Her advice to anyone considering a new direction is to be patient, stay curious and embrace every opportunity to learn.

“My journey has shown me that it’s never too late to learn something new and challenge yourself. I’m excited to see where it takes me next,” concluded Tram.