A Fragrant Future: Grasse Launches a Training Program for Young Talents in Scents and Flavours

A Fragrant Future: Grasse Opens the Doors to the World of Perfume for Young People

In the heart of the Pays de Grasse, a historic cradle of perfumery, an innovative training initiative will begin in September 2025. Targeted at young people between 16 and 25 years old, this six-month program is promoted by the École de la 2e Chance (E2C) of Nice Côte d’Azur and supported by CHANEL and the philanthropic MUL Foundation.

The “Arômes & Parfums” program is designed to introduce a new generation to a sector rich in heritage yet constantly evolving—where craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable practices come together.

A Real Opportunity for Youth Excluded from Traditional Education and Work

The Écoles de la 2e Chance were created to give young people who have dropped out of school or face difficulties entering the job market a second chance. Under the leadership of Dominique Estrosi-Sassone, the Nice branch will offer a tailored training experience, combining theoretical learning, hands-on workshops, and internships in local companies.

The program aims to provide technical skills in the cultivation of aromatic plants and the transformation of raw materials used in fragrance and flavour production. At the same time, it will strengthen participants’ interpersonal skills and core academic knowledge to support long-term employability.

Tradition That Looks to the Future

This initiative is part of a broader territorial revitalization strategy, backed by key institutional and professional partners such as the Pays de Grasse Agglomeration, the PRODAROM National Union, and the Campus Vert d’Azur.

“We strongly believe in passing down these exceptional trades to new generations,” said Olivier Polge, perfumer at Maison CHANEL. “We want to restore confidence in young people by giving them the chance to discover meaningful and lasting careers.”

Building a Bridge Between Youth and Territory

Through this project, Grasse reasserts its role not only as the capital of perfume but also as a hub for youth empowerment. It is a place where deep-rooted tradition meets innovation—and where young talent can blossom, just like the flowers that give life to the world’s most iconic scents.