“My son has been employed for nearly two years now. I wasn’t sure that would be possible.”

The very goal of the Mahaba Cafe is to see our young people develop more independence and fulfil their potential in the world of employment. 

So it’s always wonderful to hear how learners from previous cohorts are getting on a few years down the line. We took some time to chat with Rob, the father of James, one of our graduate learners.

Rob: "To see my 23-year-old son James employed today, happy and thriving, is absolutely amazing. He works in retail for Next, and I have to say it’s something I wasn’t sure would be on the cards for him. 

Because it wasn’t always like this. James is neurodivergent and has really struggled with self-confidence and belief in his own abilities. 

And that is a tough place to be as an individual. To feel as though you cannot contribute, earn a living or be part of your local community.

James needed a lot of encouragement to start new things. He was very reticent in trying something different or going anywhere new. This can be daunting for anyone. And if there is a reason that things don’t always “click” or make sense the first time - for people like James - it is even scarier. 

We were very fortunate to have the Mahaba cafe close by, and in 2022, we secured a space for James through the West London University Supported Internship.

James learnt a whole host of things during his time at Mahaba. But the biggest thing in my view was helping him to succeed at things he never thought he would be capable of.

Muriel and the team show James and anyone else who walks through the doors that they can contribute. They can take someone’s order. They are more than capable of making a coffee that someone will pay for. They can work the till and help with stock replacement.

Every time James did something new, it got easier, and he needed less and less support. 

It’s not just a boost to his self-worth. This experience was a whole re-imagining of his place in society. He can be part of something bigger than himself. And be successful. 

After completing the supported internship at Mahaba Cafe, James went on to a placement at a pub for three months and is now a part-time employee on the shop floor of one of Next’s branches. 

And he excels. He is never late. There are parts of the job that are repetitive, but he doesn't mind this. In fact, it plays to his strengths. Customer interaction no longer phases him. He is good at what he does, AND he loves it. 

I categorically do not think this would have been possible without the Mahaba Cafe’s teaching and direction. They helped him imagine the unimaginable. And having programmes like this available is only a win-win as far as I can see. James’ life is transformed. He is earning money and has a purpose. His employer has a reliable and dedicated employee who shows up for work without fail and puts in the time and effort every shift. 

And for us, James’ parents, we have greater peace of mind. We would love for James to live independently, so that his future is more secure, and we can now see this as a possibility, all stemming from the skills he learnt from his time at the Cafe. 

I’m sure there’ll be bumps, but the road ahead looks easier, brighter and happier for my son. It’s all any parent wants. I couldn’t ask for more."

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James: Comment from James to be added

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Want to know more? Find out if Mahaba Cafe could be right for you, or a loved one here.