A Case for Social Enterprise: Café Connex
Supporting the development of career pathways and employment opportunities for financially disadvantaged South Australians is a core component of Wyatt’s work. Wyatt believes that individuals of all abilities should be offered opportunities to participate in the workforce as this often directly correlates to an increase in self-esteem, financial wellbeing and social inclusion.
Cafe Connex is a social enterprise and training cafe that has been created by UnitingCare Wesley Country SA with initial funding from the Jobs Fund to create a supportive space for people with barriers to obtain experience in the work force as a step towards mainstream employment.
The cafe currently employs ten trainees, who are trained and mentored in skills such as food preparation, barista, customer service, preparing meals and cleaning. They learn skills in time management and increase their self-confidence and self worth.
Partnering with Wyatt has allowed the cafe to maximise its mentoring capabilities to the benefit of the trainees. This ensures their successful employment within the Café and increases their ability to gain mainstream employment. As a result of this, the hard evidence can be observed as trainees grow as people and as workers.
One trainee, Aaron, has since had his Supported Wage Assessment reassessed and has improved in his productivity levels and has even been nominated for trainee of the year alongside another trainee, Deb.
Another participant, Domanie, has commenced under the Supported Wage Scheme and is enjoying increased hours and the ability to have longevity in her placement within the cafe. She is constantly learning new skills and creating a list of her ‘specialties’. Her mother has been most grateful for the opportunities Domanie has been given and is very happy that, despite her barriers, she is able to engage in employment.
