A café which offers internship opportunities for young adults with learning disabilities in Greenwich has been awarded the “best new business of the year”.
The Best of Royal Greenwich Business Awards was held on Friday (November 10) and celebrated local businesses and their outstanding contributions to the borough.
Sponsored by the University of Greenwich, Camouflage Café bagged the “best new business of the year” award at the ceremony.
Camouflage Cafe provides internship opportunities for young adults with learning disabilities through their parent program, the Brighter Futures Project.
The interns gain hands-on job training in food service, customer service, operations and more by working at the cafe under supervision of our experienced staff.
Accepting the award on behalf of Camouflage was intern Adelynn Chan, who was absolutely chuffed to accept the award, she said: "I love being part of the team at Camouflage."
At the ceremony, Camouflage Café also thanked key local partners who have supported their mission, including the landlord Peabody, suppliers like Drury Tea and local garden centre Roots4Life as well as our loyal customers.
As the team celebrate this award, Camouflage Café are looking to “welcome more interns”, and “continue their work” of developing abilities, building confidence, and bringing delicious food and coffee to the community.
The much-loved café is open six days a week and offers a diverse menu, including breakfasts, sandwiches, pizza and much more.
Judges who attended the ceremony include, Cllr Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business and Skills, Royal Borough of Greenwich; Michael Bullion, CEO and Founder, Tribe Urban Entertainment; Rachel Brown, Head of Enterprise and Innovation, University of Greenwich; Cllr Majid Rahman – Economy Champion - Our Greenwich Plan; Tracey Sage, Associate, Emergency Exit Arts; Max Skomorowski, Director, Greenwich Enterprise Board and Steve Sayer, VP and General Manager at the O2 Arena.
Program Director Kemi Madumere said: “Our interns inspire us every day with their dedication, abilities, and accomplishments here at the café.
"Meanwhile, our support staff take great care to nurture the potential of each intern.
“This award belongs to our entire Camouflage family.
"It truly takes a village to create an inclusive environment like Camouflage Café.
"We are so grateful to be embraced by local businesses and residents."
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