A new, not-for-profit coffee shop in West Ealing is already helping to change lives by giving job opportunities to young people with additional needs.

Mahaba Café, which opened during the spring in Singapore Road, held a graduation event this month for 10 young people with learning disabilities. They had all completed its training and work experience programme.

The café is part of the Mahaba initiative, a local social enterprise set up in 2023 to support young people with learning disabilities into employment.

Before the café opened, Mahaba delivered its training in partnership with local businesses, such as The Ealing Project and Reineta café. Now, with a dedicated space of its own, Mahaba can offer more training hours and a consistent, ‘real-life’ environment for learners to build skills and confidence.

Since opening, Mahaba has supported 32 young people through its training programme. The 10 graduates who celebrated in July are part of that wider group – and one of them has already secured a job.

Founder Muriel Morgan Walckiers said: “This café isn’t just about coffee, it’s about creating opportunity. We’re proud to be showing what’s possible when young people with learning disabilities are given the right support.”

A space for everyone

Mahaba Café is not only a training hub – it’s also a welcoming space for the whole community. The team is currently developing a schedule of community activities for all ages and would love to hear from local people who have ideas or would like to use the space for groups or events. Suggestions can be sent to: zoemahabacafe@gmail.com.

Mahaba is also keen to hear from businesses and organisations interested in partnering to support inclusive employment and increase opportunities for young people with SEND.

A borough-wide challenge

Only 2.2% of adults with learning disabilities in the borough are currently in paid employment – one of the lowest rates in London. Mahaba Café is helping to change that by offering real work experience in a supportive environment, with personalised training plans and a pathway into paid work.

The café is also building strong links with local businesses and volunteers, creating a wider network of support for young people who are often overlooked in the job market.

Council-backed support

While Mahaba Café is a community-led initiative, Ealing Council is also working to improve employment outcomes for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The council’s Supported Internship Programme helps young people transition from education into work, with placements both in and outside the borough. Numbers are growing year on year – from 26 in 2021 to 37 in 2024 – and success stories include Harvey, who now works for the council, and others who have found roles in the NHS and local businesses.

The council has also partnered with the West London Alliance (WLA) on Connect to Work, a 5-year programme that began in April. It helps people with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or other barriers into jobs – or helps them stay in work. In its first month, 36 residents joined the programme, with 95% seeking employment and 5% receiving help to retain their jobs.

Councillor Polly Knewstub, cabinet member for thriving communities, said: “Mahaba Café is a fantastic example of what’s possible when we work together to break down barriers. We’re proud to support inclusive employment through our own programmes and we’re committed to doing more to help residents with learning disabilities thrive.”

Councillor Kamaljit Kaur Nagpal, cabinet member for decent living incomes, added: “Mahaba Café is a shining example of how we can unlock potential and create meaningful employment opportunities for young people with learning disabilities. It reflects our wider ambition to build a fairer, more inclusive economy in Ealing – one where everyone has the chance to thrive. We’re proud to support initiatives that help residents find not just jobs, but purpose and belonging.”

Find out more

Mahaba Café is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm, and welcomes all visitors. You can also learn more about supported internships and inclusive employment through the following links:

• Supported internships – Ealing Council
• Connect to Work – WLA