A new cafe is set to open its doors, promising delicious treats, a warm atmosphere, and a focus on inclusivity.
The Big Happy Cafe, named by the cafe’s staff, the “Head Highers,” is an initiative by Head High Skills, an organisation supporting young adults with disabilities. This exciting new venture aims to create employment opportunities for the Head Highers while fostering a space that welcomes everyone.
“All of Head High’s initiatives are designed to build confidence, self-esteem, and improve communication,” explains Julie Ross-Edwards from Head High Skills. The organisation achieves this by providing opportunities for the Head Highers to connect with their peers and build networks with local businesses.
The menu features “specials” created by the Head Highers themselves, showcasing their talents and passion. Additionally, the cafe will stock delicious gluten-free treats from “Dan’s Bakehouse,” another Head Higher’s entrepreneurial venture.
The Big Happy Cafe prioritises accessibility and inclusivity. They offer a pictorial “order pad” for customers who may need assistance, and the live music encourages singing and movement, creating a joyful atmosphere.
“We are very grateful to the team at St Matthew’s Church for providing the great space and being so on board with The Big Happy Cafe Idea,” says Julie.
The cafe is committed to building connections within the community. They already have successful partnerships with local businesses in Mosman and are actively seeking collaborations in Manly. They welcome partnerships with businesses interested in supplying coffee and potential volunteers who share their vision of inclusion.
“We are delighted that Manly has embraced us very quickly with fabulously valuable and successful skill shares with the wonderful Chocobowl, Manly surfboards, Zali Steggall’s office, and Manly Co-Op.”
The Big Happy Cafe opens today, and every Wednesday from 11 am to 1:30 pm for the next three months. While they won’t offer opening specials immediately, they plan to introduce them after the initial training period, including a popular Scottish shortbread and a grazing platter designed by Stella, one of the Head Highers.
Julie emphasises that while the cafe is a training and learning environment, they strive for excellence and hope customers will be patient as they reach their full potential.
“The philosophy behind this is that our Head Highers are seen for their skills, strengths, and attributes in these pressurised situations,” says Julie. “We hope that a professional or employer will see this, and realise that they have a match for employment or the desire to customise a role that will offer mutual benefits. We hope that the café will bring about some matches!”
For more information on how to get involved or support the Big Happy Cafe and its mission, drop by and grab a bite to eat, or visit the Head High Skills Facebook page.
Big Happy Cafe
1 Darley Road, Manly.
Opening hours: 11:00–1:30 pm
Every Wednesday from the 28th of February until the 22nd of May, 2024.
Head High Skills Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/headhighskills/
