A WOKINGHAM cafe, delighted to have reached its third birthday, recently celebrated with staff, customers and the community.
In itself the anniversary represents an achievement for Kimel Cafe, and is certainly not a given for any small business in the current economic climate.
But the cafe has a great deal more to be proud of.
For people not familiar with the project, Kimel Cafe is a community endeavour that offers paid employment to neurodivergent young adults.
Since its launch already 35 young employees have benefited from the support, guidance and community that it offers.
Founder Nic Lander, said: “I am so privileged to have been part of this project over the past three years.
“The managers and team leaders have done an amazing job in giving the young people real life expertise and transferable employability skills.
“The three years haven’t been without their challenges, but we have had tremendous support from the local community, and our customers too – a massive thank you to all involved.”
The unique nature of Kimel Cafe is not only in the staff it employs.
It is the only cafe in the area where the team bakes all its own cakes and sweet treats on site – everything is freshly prepared.
It is also a place where lives are being changed.
One employee, when asked about what difference working at Kimel Cafe had made for them, said: “This has been a literal lifeline for me.
“Getting back to work felt like an impossible challenge with too many obstacles, but the friendly managers, mentors and colleagues and the understanding working atmosphere that everyone provides has been crucial in allowing me to find employment that works for me too.
“It has given me much needed routine and schedule to my days, allowing me to get up and out, and in the process I’ve also made new friends.”
Nic continued: “In a world where the challenges of neurodivergence can sometimes seem out of sync with the requirements of modern business, Kimel is proud to provide a nurturing and safe environment to allow our young people to develop and flourish.
“The community clearly loves the cafe and we love them back, feeding them amazing drinks, cakes, bakes and toasties.”
Kimel Cafe is growing.
The project currently has 20 young neurodivergent people on its waiting list, and to accommodate them, urgently needs new premises.
Nic explained: “Moving forward we face different challenges, most critically we are desperate for new premises to enable us to offer opportunities to more members of the ND community.
“We’d love to be able to get all those on our waiting list involved and working with us.”
With breakfast baps, toasties, tray bakes and cakes to go with the cafe’s range of hot drinks and smoothies, there’s plenty for customers to enjoy.
Kimel Cafe, on Evendons Lane, also hosts a supper club and craft events.
It is open on weekdays from 8.30am until 4.30pm, and at weekends from 9.30am until 4pm.
