Aspirations NZ is a social enterprise that aims to remedy the underemployment of people with learning disabilities through training, practical work experience and skill development programmes. 100% of our profit is channeled back into the community and the development of the training programme. In collaboration with professional coffee roasters/barista trainers and chefs, our unique training sessions are provided in functioning cafés. Trainees develop a wide range of practical skills which is applicable in their field of interest. These skills include :

 

• Barista coffee making

• Customer Service

• Health & Safety

• Teamwork and communication

• Basic financial literacy

• TILL and EFTPOS usage

• Cooking skills (Knife skills, baking, plating)

• Practical work experience in a real café

• Time Management

• Interview preparation

• And much, much more!

 

Our programmes are designed and customised for people with learning disabilities by our co-Founder and Chief Training Officer, Jess Scarsbrook. Everyone has different aspirations and dreams of what they want to do and who they want to become, at Aspirations we recognise this and tailor aspects of our programmes to help our trainees reach their desired goals. Upon completion of the programme, Aspirations continues to support trainees in preparing for interviews, gaining employment, as well as providing feedback and assistance to those who have secured employment.

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Our Goal/Mission

To promote community integration for people with learning disabilities by providing a practical platform to employment.

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Our Vision

● To pave the way for a diverse and inclusive workforce through practical training, workshops and opportunities for engagement for both people with learning disabilities, potential employers and the community as a whole.

● To pave the way for inclusiveness and acceptance of diversity within the workforce and society

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Our Purpose

● To ensure that community employers see the true value and potential of people with learning disabilities, especially in a professional environment.

● To ensure that people with learning disabilities are able to make a meaningful contribution to the workplace and wider community.

● To ensure that people with disabilities are able to effectively engage with the wider community and vice versa, in a professional environment and breaking down barriers outside the workplace

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We kickstarted our programme in June 2018. Having received positive feedback and good support from the community, we are looking forward to continue serving our community and promoting integration.