Our Role Model — Edwin Lim's Speech"I came to Believe NJ Café when my mother shared with her friends about me and one of her friends recommended this place to her. When she told me about the place, I was a little hesitant about it as I had never had any working experience at all. When I went to the place for the first time, I was unsure whether I would fit in or whether I could do all the things in the café. I was surprised that I can do some simple things such a making coffee and serving people. I am doing well there despite the problems I am facing. Sometimes when there are customers, I feel nervous and unsure how they will react to me as an intellectually challenged worker. I am also not confident in making some of the dishes. However, I am able to make drinks and even learn to cook a few simple dishes in the menu such as chicken / beef bolognaise with meatballs, tuna sandwich with coleslaw. I am also able to get ready the shop for business. I also operate the cash register.
Another duty assigned to me is to help Auntie Jenny in guiding the Emaar and Dover students who come to the café for training on F & B.
Emaar students are from the international school nearby the café. There are two groups of about 6 - 8 students coming for lessons every week on Mondays and Thursdays. I help Auntie Jenny to teach and guide them on preparing food and serving customers. During the time they were at the café I also make friends with them. I got along with them fine and at the end of each lesson we shared our thoughts on the lesson conducted. My first concern when I got to meet them was whether they could accept me. I was also worried that I may not remember what I have taught in the first group when I am guiding the second group. However, I realize later that imparting my knowledge to them helps me to learn and remember the work processes.
Dover students come every Tuesday in the morning. They are children with special needs and they come to the café to learn how to prepare food and serving customers. Auntie Jenny briefed and shared with me the learning difficulties and I was well prepared to meet them. I go at a slower pace in guiding them and communicating with them. I was also able to interact well with them.
Although I am face with many challenges ahead, I will take it one step at a time. I intend to pursue my new found interest in F & B and am considering to make it my career."