Spreading joy, one cake at a time

Inspired by the rich tradition of hand-made cakes passed down through generations, Marcelina Gunawan founded Joyful Baking Australia with the aim of preserving these recipes whilst infusing creativity. From birthdays and weddings to anniversaries and graduations, her bespoke cakes carry not just fresh flavours, but the essence of joyful moments and celebration.

What advice do you have for aspiring business women or those looking to advance their careers in your industry?

Constantly invest in finetuning your skills, stay updated with the latest industry trends, and never compromise on the quality of your products with the prices. Most importantly, believe in your talents and your unique vision, the driving force that will set you apart from the rest and lead you to success.

How do you stay up to date with developments in your industry?

Continuous learning is paramount in our field. It ensures that we always adapt to evolving consumer preferences, innovative techniques, and emerging trends in the baking industry. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have been fantastic for showcasing my cake designs and engaging with a wider audience and also enable me to stay updated with industry trends and customer preferences.

What are some important skills women require to excel in their careers?

Cultivating resilience and adaptability are crucial skills that women need to excel in their careers. When women have confidence in their abilities, coupled with a willingness to learn and navigate challenges, they can overcome any obstacles and emerge stronger in their business journey. By excelling in these aspects, women not only enhance their own businesses or careers but also contribute to fostering inclusive workplaces and driving positive change.

Have you had any mentors who have been particularly influential?

My dad has been my most influential mentor, providing steadfast support and invaluable insights that have shaped my entrepreneurial journey until now.

What do you see as the most significant trends in your industry in the coming years?

I foresee a rising demand for healthier cakes, as people are becoming more health-conscious, that eventually will open new opportunities for more innovative and nutritious recipes. Additionally, personalised cakes tailored to specific dietary needs or events are gaining popularity, offering a niche market to explore. We are also compelled to adopt eco-friendly practices and unique flavour fusions to follow the recent trends in the market.

What are your thoughts on the importance of workplace culture?

Workplace culture is immensely important as it shapes the atmosphere, teamwork, and overall joy of our staff. I firmly believe in fostering a positive culture at Joyful Baking Australia, with the main ingredient being to acknowledge and appreciate each team member’s contributions to our business.

How does your business contribute to your local community?

Joyful Baking Australia takes pride in making substantial contributions to our local community in Canberra. We prioritise sourcing our ingredients locally and fresh as well as supporting regional farmers and nearby supply chains. Furthermore, by spreading joy through our cake creations, we aim to create a positive and lasting impact on the people in our community.

To find out more about Joyful Baking Australia, visit joyfulbaking.com.au or contact Marcelina Gunawan on 0449 558 979 or [email protected]