Nine People Of Determination At Zayed Higher Organisation Earn Barista Certification From SCA

The Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) has reached a significant global milestone. This achievement underscores the UAE's commitment to empowering People of Determination (PoD) and integrating them into innovative sectors. Nine members of the organisation have earned the Level 1 Barista Certification from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), marking them as the first PoD globally to achieve this prestigious qualification in specialty coffee.

These certified individuals are employed at "Bee Café," an initiative by ZHO and the first café in the UAE entirely run by People of Determination. They completed an extensive training program over several months, covering both theoretical and practical aspects. The training included skills in coffee preparation, tasting, roasting, brewing techniques, and barista equipment use, all adhering to top international standards.

The certifications obtained by these individuals cover three key areas: Introduction to Coffee, Barista Skills Foundation, and Brewing Foundation. This accomplishment opens up numerous opportunities for People of Determination, including better job prospects locally and internationally. It also offers potential for higher income compared to uncertified peers and advancement to senior roles like Head Barista or Certified Trainer.

This achievement highlights Bee Café's success as one of ZHO’s flagship economic empowerment projects. Launched in 2022, it aims to provide real work environments for PoD and transform their passion for coffee into professional skills and sustainable careers in hospitality. The project includes on-the-job learning, communication skills development, customer service training, and self-management.

Abdullah Abdulali Al Humaidan, Secretary General of Zayed Higher Organisation, expressed pride in this global achievement: "The fact that several of our PoD members have earned SCA Barista Certification reflects the determination and capability of our youth when given the right opportunity. Their accomplishment at Bee Café is not only a testament to their professional competence but also a powerful message: true empowerment begins with believing in their abilities and providing specialized training."

Al Humaidan emphasised that Bee Café is more than just a café; it represents hope and inclusion. It showcases ZHO's dedication to supporting People of Determination in living dignified lives with access to career opportunities matching their potential. He praised the Specialty Coffee Association for launching the first licensed training program exclusively for ZHO members.

A Model for Inclusion

This global success also demonstrates the ability of People of Determination in the UAE to excel in specialised fields. It reinforces Zayed Higher Organisation's role as a leader in creating sustainable empowerment models that enhance active participation in society and the labour market.

Bee Café is fully operated by young People of Determination and embodies ZHO's global call to action "Be the Change." This initiative inspires individuals and organisations to rethink perceptions about PoD capabilities while sparking a movement for change.

The café provides members with real-life work experience in a professional setting, turning their passion for coffee into certified skills and employment opportunities. Beyond being a commercial venture, it serves as a comprehensive model for vocational rehabilitation and social inclusion.

Through their involvement at Bee Café, members develop public communication skills, teamwork abilities, discipline, and financial independence. This makes Bee Café an example of inclusive development and true empowerment.

With inputs from WAM