Empowering Workers: Hong Kong Cafe Offering Opportunities for People with Disabilities
Chris Brook, a 22-year-old with autism spectrum disorder, warmly welcomes customers at Museum Cafe 8, located above Hong Kong’s Maritime Museum in Central. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Brook was encouraged to apply for a job at the café by his former school, Hong Chi Morninghope School, which caters to students with intellectual disabilities.
Museum Cafe 8, a social enterprise by The Nesbitt Centre, stands out as one of the few establishments in Hong Kong that predominantly hires individuals with learning disabilities for customer-facing roles. With 42 staff members, four of whom are able-bodied, the café provides a supportive environment for individuals like Brook to thrive.
Surinder Punjya, executive director of The Nesbitt Centre, emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals with disabilities by placing them in front-end roles. This approach allows employees to engage with customers directly, enhancing their confidence and independence.
In Hong Kong, where around 77,000 to 90,000 people live with intellectual disabilities, the unemployment rate among individuals with disabilities remains high. The Equal Opportunities Commission reports that over 80% of people with disabilities in the city aged above 15 are economically inactive, highlighting the need for inclusive employment opportunities.
Melody De Leon, a manager at Museum Cafe 8, recognizes the value of providing regular work schedules for employees with disabilities while ensuring the café remains financially viable. By fostering a supportive environment, De Leon helps individuals like Brook and others develop their skills and self-esteem.
Creating a More Inclusive Workplace Environment
Faride Shroff, CEO and founder of SENsational Foundation, sheds light on the stigma surrounding disabilities in Hong Kong. Despite legal protections against discrimination, societal attitudes often hinder individuals with disabilities from fully participating in the workforce.
SENsational Foundation focuses on promoting inclusivity in employment practices, urging businesses to embrace diversity and provide equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Shroff emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset within the community to recognize and appreciate the unique abilities of neurodivergent individuals.
Jeffrey Joubert, a staff member at Museum Cafe 8, shares his journey of overcoming challenges associated with dyslexia, autism, and dyspraxia. Through his work at the café, Joubert finds purpose and fulfillment, challenging stereotypes and advocating for greater acceptance of individuals with diverse abilities.
Long-Term Benefits of Inclusive Employment
Marco von Siebenthal, an autistic employee at Museum Cafe 8, highlights the positive impact of long-term employment on individuals with disabilities. By fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among colleagues, the café enables employees to develop valuable relationships and contribute meaningfully to the team.
De Leon underscores the importance of social interaction in the workplace, emphasizing the role of customer engagement in boosting self-esteem and confidence among employees with disabilities. By providing opportunities for individuals to interact with customers, the café promotes a supportive and inclusive environment.
Looking Towards a More Inclusive Future
Despite efforts to promote inclusive employment practices, challenges persist in securing sustainable job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Ng from Hong Chi Morninghope School emphasizes the need for consistent resources and support to facilitate long-term employment for students with disabilities.
Shroff calls for greater government involvement in promoting inclusivity and involving individuals with disabilities in decision-making processes. By advocating for policy changes and raising awareness about the capabilities of neurodivergent individuals, society can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
As Joubert reflects on his journey, he embraces his disability as a source of strength and uniqueness. By challenging misconceptions and advocating for greater acceptance, individuals like Joubert inspire others to embrace diversity and create a more inclusive society.
In conclusion, Museum Cafe 8 serves as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment, providing individuals with disabilities the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and welcoming environment. Through meaningful employment, individuals like Chris Brook, Jeffrey Joubert, and Marco von Siebenthal demonstrate the importance of embracing diversity and recognizing the unique talents of every individual. Together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.