CONNECTOR.AE 58 CONNECTOR.AE 59 LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE commitment to dignity, equality and excellence. Raghu emphasises that his wife plays an integral role and notes, “She visits the café regularly, not to manage operations, but to be there for the team. To watch over them, guide them, and ensure they feel safe”. Looking To The Future Raghu’s aspirations are far from over, as he hopes to open more outlets across Dubai, including in Dubai Mall and later, airport terminals. Raghu’s ultimate goal? “To open 21 cafés across Dubai dedicated to people with Down Syndrome and similar conditions, and show the world that Dubai is a place where People of Determination are not only welcomed but empowered”. Among the families whose children are employed at the cafe, there is tremendous positive response. Raghu is already receiving calls from other parents asking if their children can join. “Some parents say, even without a salary, just let them come. But I insist that they visited by people from all over the world. What better place to introduce a café where special individuals are at the forefront and encouraged as People of Determination?”, Raghu asks. Initially, Raghu approached several malls, including Dubai Mall, but found little support. Eventually, Al Ghurair Centre welcomed his vision. By April 2024, the café opened its doors, not just as a business venture, but as an embodiment of love and care extended by a father to his son, and to every other family facing similar circumstances. Raghu also points out that the name ‘21 Café’ holds profound significance. “Every human has 23 pairs of chromosomes. Down Syndrome occurs due to an extra chromosome on the 21st pair”, Raghu explains. “That’s why the café is called 21. It’s a tribute to their uniqueness”. Even the café’s business licence is registered as ‘21K’, reflecting a strong personal and scientific foundation behind the brand. A Café Like No Other 21 Café isn’t just another coffee shop, it’s a social mission. Currently, it employs five individuals with Down Syndrome, all trained and recommended by the Emirates Down Syndrome Association. These employees work in two shifts, five hours each, interacting with customers, preparing beverages, and offering service with unmatched sincerity. “I trained my son for years in discipline and selfcare, and I wanted other children to have the same opportunity”, Raghu says. “I approached the Emirates Down Syndrome Association, and they helped me connect with trained individuals. I pay them a fair salary, and their dedication has exceeded all expectations”. Raghu beams with pride as he speaks about his team. “They’re punctual, responsible, and voluntarily engage with customers. People are amazed. Customers take photos, share stories on social media, and return with friends. The café is nowaplaceof joy, connection, andempowerment”. What sets 21 Café apart isn’t just its mission, it’s the quality. Raghu, a self-confessed coffee connoisseur, went all the way to Brazil to source single-origin beans from top producers. “I’ve tried every brand and I wanted ours to be better. And it is”, Raghu says confidently. The café also serves pastries made by individuals with Down Syndrome through a professional bakery at the Emirates Down Syndrome Association, led by an Italian chef. “Whatever revenue we earn from the bakery items goes straight to them, no margin taken”, Raghu notes. The attention to detail reflects Raghu’s “Every human has 23 pairs of chromosomes. Down Syndrome occurs due to an extra chromosome on the 21st pair”. That’s why the café is called 21. It’s a tribute to their uniqueness.” “To open 21 cafés across Dubai dedicated to people with Down Syndrome and similar conditions, and show the world that Dubai is a place where People of Determination are not only welcomed but empowered.” must be compensated. When my son received his first pay cheque, the happiness on his face ... It was priceless. They all deserve that”, Raghu insists. However, given the heartening response from families in the UAE, Raghu is also open to having volunteers join on weekends. “Friday to Sunday, parents can bring their children with special needs to help out for a few hours. It gives them a chance to step out, interact and feel like they’re a part of something”, Raghu notes.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MzU4NjA=