Where Is My Coffee? Kensington!

For-purpose aged and disability organisation VMCH is proud to announce the opening of its fourth social enterprise café, Where Is My Coffee? (WIMC) Kensington, in partnership with community housing provider Unison Housing.

The cafe, to be launched on International Day of People with Disability on 3 December, will provide on-the-job training and pathways to employment for people with disability, while creating a vibrant community hub for local residents.

VMCH CEO Sonya Smart said the partnership is about creating real opportunities for people with disability to build skills and confidence in a supportive environment.

“We know that having a job can change someone’s life – it’s about independence, confidence and feeling part of the community. Our cafés give people with disability the chance to learn, grow and take that next step into paid work. Partnering with Unison Housing means we can offer these opportunities in a space that’s welcoming and inclusive for everyone.”

Unison CEO James King said:

“This partnership is about more than coffee – it’s about creating an intentional and inclusive space for people to gather and embrace their community.

By supporting the 450 public housing households at Kensington Estate, which Unison manages, and opening employment pathways for people with a disability, we’re building opportunities that foster connection and inclusion. It’s a powerful example of collaboration making a lasting positive impact for the neighbourhood and beyond.”

VMCH client Ryan joined VMCH's Nunawading cafe in 2023, sharpening his barista and customer service skills, and building his confidence. With guidance from VMCH’s employment pathways team, Ryan recently transitioned into a paid that role combines his love of trains with his passion for supporting others; a Transport Assistant with Travellers Aid, associated with Yarra Trams.

Ryan’s new role sees him supporting older persons as they travel by minibus to replacement tram services. Whilst his first day on the job was quiet, he quickly settled in after the first few customers came through. For Ryan’s mum, Huong, the transformation has been clear.

“It has been a great opportunity for Ryan to be exposed to different work environments,” said Ryan’s mum, Huong. “He has gained valuable experiences both personally and professionally from this new role. He has more confidence now and is ready for the next one.”

Over the past 12 months, VMCH has delivered more than 41,000 hours of job skills training to 141 clients, provided award-wage employment to 13 individuals, and partnered with 20 employment organisations to help participants transition into the open workforce.

Chris Coughlan, Social Enterprise Manager at VMCH, said Ryan’s employment as a milestone moment.

“Collaborating with Travelers Aid and seeing Ryan secure employment marks a significant milestone for our social enterprise cafés in Melbourne. Adding WIMC Kensington to our portfolio is a powerful step forward on our journey toward achieving our 2030 social impact goals."