Georgie, from Alex Hill L&L, started her barista journey at the Support Centre Flourish Café in early 2024, where her love for learning and new experiences helped her secure a mainstream role while increasing her independence and skills.
I like everything!
Georgie shared about her experience at the café.
Georgie first joined the café alongside Ashley, Michelle, and Tim where the group would practice making coffees and serving customers for one hour every Monday.
“As she learned and improved, she expressed a desire to work in a café more permanently.” Café Supervisor and Supported Employee Program Coordinator Chloe Harris said.
Her commitment paid off when she secured a position as a barista, where she now works every Tuesday from 9am to 12:45pm. In her role, Georgie has mastered the art of coffee making and knows how to make all types of coffee! She has also learned to take initiative by managing tasks independently, like emptying full bins without needing reminders.
Her growth didn’t stop there; she went on to complete a TAFE course that expanded her knowledge of computers, learning essential skills like typing and navigating software. This combination of on-the-job training and education set her up for success in a role that has since become her passion.
Chloe, who works closely with Georgie, has loved watching Georgie thrive.
“It has been a joy watching her grow and improve in all areas.
“She not only learned the technical skills needed to work in a café but also gained confidence in interacting with customers and managing tasks independently.”
Chloe Harris
In addition to her skills at work, Georgie’s independence has soared. She now takes a 45-minute train ride from Ormiston to the café every Tuesday—an achievement that has connected her more deeply with the community and allowed her to save for future dreams, including getting married one day.
At the café, the focus is not just on teaching coffee making skills but on providing opportunities for students like Georgie to develop transferable skills that will serve them in any future employment or personal achievement.
The results are clear: Georgie has gained independence, confidence and valuable life skills through the program.
Join the team! The café has space for more classes and would love to welcome more students ☕
We encourage local Site Managers to reach out at [email protected] anytime and we can work together to find a schedule that suits that meets the needs of people we support.
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