We’re here to celebrate independence, individuality and freedom of choice. Using the small things in our lives to have the biggest positive impact.
Our Story
Founded by the team behind NEMI Teas, we share the same objective – to help London’s refugee community integrate, train and become independent citizens.
Built on the values of looking forward, being compassionate, and believing in better we’re committed to using our business as a genuine force for good. Building and maintaining relationships that transform lives.
Partnering with The Hotel School, and employment partner, Thomas Franks, we work together to provide a holistic route from gaining refugee status to meaningful employment and a place in our proudly multicultural community.
We provide training and employment to refugees to help shape their future
Changing lives for London’s refugees
We refer to our team members as our “Kinfolk” to reflect the mutual obligation we all have to each other, and the bond that exists between us. This is important because we can only be successful by working together, and by breaking bread together.
“Those who eat and drink together are by this very act tied to one another by a bond of friendship and mutual obligation. The idea that kinship is not purely an affair of birth, but may be acquired.” (Robertson Smith)
Changing lives for London’s refugees
We refer to our team members as our “Kinfolk” to reflect the mutual obligation we all have to each other, and the bond that exists between us. This is important because we can only be successful by working together, and by breaking bread together.
“Those who eat and drink together are by this very act tied to one another by a bond of friendship and mutual obligation. The idea that kinship is not purely an affair of birth, but may be acquired.” (Robertson Smith)
Meet Our Kinfolk
Antonio
Antonio
Hailing from Naples, coffee guru Antonio sees the cafe as a place to share ideas and good vibes. He is known for lifting every customer’s mood with a friendly “Buongiorno!” and a superb cup of coffee.
Pranav
Pranav
Pranav is an Indian-born, Kiwi-raised social entrepreneur. By founding TRAMPOLINE, he has realised his dream of empowering individuals in need through employment to help shape their journey.
Lidia
Lidia
Lidia, who is originally from Eritrea, loves putting a smile on her customers’ faces and making everyone feel at home. She is very attentive to people’s needs and dreams of owning her own cafe in the future.
Melaku
MELAKU
Melaku comes from Eritrea and has been immersed in the coffee culture since childhood. Friendly and always willing to help, he is also hugely passionate about classical music.
Nafar
Nafar
Sri Lankan chef Nafar is known for her delicious food creations combining a unique mix of influences including English, Sri Lankan, Greek and Turkish flavours. Curious and very creative, she also enjoys holding cooking classes.
Groundwork
Groundwork is a federation of charities mobilising practical community action on poverty and the environment across the UK.
The Hotel School
Hotel School teaches hospitality skills to homeless and vulnerable people, matches them to sustainable employment, and supports them in their first steps into work.
Thomas Franks
We create exceptional food combined with superb service through our family of creative and dedicated staff.
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