A coffee roaster, a training academy for the disadvantaged and a place to enjoy specialty coffee — three good omens for those who want their cup of joe to do more than just caffeinate them. Located in the industrial area of Macpherson, this unassuming coffee house gives back to society by taking disadvantaged women and youths through a holistic six-month programme. The training not only empowers them with work skills, it also combines professional coffee education with life and emotional management skills, plus physical training. Make plans to stop by on the weekend to enjoy a cup of coffee (be sure to ask for the Bold Heart house blend) while getting some work done. Coffees are not priced and rely on tips — a great opportunity to give generously!
Photo by Burppler Hwans Lim
The blend I tried today is called Bold Heart, which is a blend of 2 beans. Was informed that they will come up with another blend soon! Roasting is done/managed by their boss. Quite enjoyed the coffee, small sized, but just nice for tasting. They put a price guide in the store but still was informed that they go by tipping. Only 2 small tables there, quite cosy.
A wonderfully smooth cappucino made from their house blend named (very appropriately) "Bold Heart". Love their coffee and their reason for being.
Here's more info on what they're about (taken from their website):
"We are a social enterprise centred on arming disadvantaged and underprivileged women with the skills and tools to make their lives better. We take a holistic training approach that focuses on mental (skills), emotional and physical development.
Starting with the specialty coffee industry, we aim to lift the overall coffee standards in Singapore by producing better baristas and coffee professionals."
For now, they operate on a tipping basis for their coffee. So please be generous, or at least, fair :)
