UBUNTU - So much more than coffee

UBUNTU - So Much More Than Coffee

You’ll have to look hard to find someone as passionate and dynamic as Lungile Manyathi. The bubbly business development manager has been with HACT (Hillcrest AIDS Centre

Trust) for four years. “As a NPO, looking at ways to become more sustainable is always on the cards,” she smiles.

The Ubuntu Ground Cafe is a social enterprise to generate income, but also a space to learn a skill. “Ubuntu is humanity in the sense that

‘my actions have an impact on others’,” explains Lungi. “Be part of this wonderful ripple effect, because when you walk in here you are immediately supporting others – every sip and bite is making a difference in someone’s life.” With delicious cakes along with skilled baristas trained by Lineage’s Craig Charity, you can’t go wrong. A small playground and baby change room cater for moms looking to catch up while tots play. The Woza Moya centre also has a plant nursery, a shop perfect for Christmas shopping and a second-hand book store.

Although the Ubuntu trainee programme has run out of funding, business still continues with core staff in place. Upskilling further is however a big wish, so if you can help in any way, please contact Lungi on hactbiz@hillaids.org.za. You could be helping youngsters such as Khanyo Shange (pictured) – one of the trainees who after 12 months has just graduated from the Barista and Hospitality Internship programme. She says,

“Sitting at home for a year with no hope of finding work almost broke my spirit. Joining the Ubuntu team has given me hope and confidence.”

FOR MORE INFO: 26 Old Main Road, Hillcrest, www.hillaids.org.za; W @UbuntuGroundCafe