Connector In Conversation With Raghu Raman Dhandapani, Founder Of 21 Cafe, Dubai’s Café Staffed By People Of Determination

In the heart of Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, stands 21 Café, a small yet powerful symbol of inclusion and hope. Beyond its rich brews and cheerful interiors lies a deeply personal and extraordinary story. This café, staffed by people of determination, is the vision of Raghu Raman Dhandapani, an Indian engineer-turned-social entrepreneur based in Saudi Arabia, who opened this unique venture not to chase profit, but to create opportunity and a safe space for those often overlooked by society. The café is proudly staffed by people with Down Syndrome, people who light up the atmosphere and the hearts of those who visit.

For Raghu Raman, the journey began not in a boardroom or a business incubator, but at home, with his son, Keerthi Vasan, who was born with Down Syndrome.

A Father's Vision, A Son’s Inspiration

Down Syndrome is the most common genetic disorder globally, affecting 1 in every 800 births. In the Middle East, the rate is even higher, with 2.2 cases per 1,000 live births, according to the Centre for Arab Genomic Studies. It comes with not just medical and developmental challenges, but emotional and social ones as well, for both the parents and the children. Raghu’s story, therefore, is one that many parents in the UAE will find resonant.

“My son, Keerthi Vasan, was born in Saudi Arabia in the year 2000, and immediately after his birth, the doctor informed us that he was a special child”, Raghu recalls. “We had no prior knowledge of Down Syndrome. It was heartbreaking, but he's a lucky child in many ways. We quickly learnt and did everything we could to ensure he had the best life possible”.

As Keerthi Vasan grew, Raghu and his family noticed a familiar pattern, namely, his world was confined to the safety of home and familiarity of the faces of his immediate family members. Raghu says, “His growth became limited because of his limited social engagement. He knew what I was going to ask, and he would always respond the same way. That was the only cycle he had known for over two decades”.

Determined to provide his son with a meaningful and responsible social life, Raghu began to consider how he could expand his world. “Studies show that when people with Down Syndrome socialise more, their cognitive reflexes improve. I knew I had to create a space that encourages that”, Raghu says.

The answer that dawned on him was quite simple, yet powerful. A coffee shop.

From An Idea To A Café

The idea for 21 Café took shape in 2022, when Keerthi Vasan crossed 21, the legal working age. Raghu, who has worked in Saudi Arabia for over 30 years, saw Dubai as the perfect city for the venture. “Dubai is vibrant, cosmopolitan, and 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 self-care, 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 now a place of joy, connection, and empowerment”.

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 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 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.

Raghu also reiterates that he is not seeking donations, “I’m not looking for charity. I’m looking for space and support. Let the café run on its own, and whatever profit comes, let it go to them”.

A Call For Compassionate Business

For aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start inclusive and socially responsible ventures, Raghu offers simple advice, “Treat them as equals. Know their habits, understand their challenges, and give them the same opportunities. If you have a child in your family with special needs, you already know how to manage. Turn that experience into empowerment”.

Raghu’s journey is one of resilience, empathy and determined love. What began as a father’s dream for his son has become a living, breathing community café with the power to change lives.

21 Café is not just serving coffee. It’s serving hope, one cup at a time, and we can’t wait to see the movement flourish and continue to inspire the residents of the city and beyond. 

Visit 21 Café at Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, Dubai, and support a movement where determination and compassion matters more than anything else. 

@21cafeuae