‘Pride Cafe’, aimed at supporting the LGBTQIA+ community with livelihood opportunities and providing them with a positive visibility in society was launched in Bengaluru on Monday. An initiative by the Solidarity Foundation in partnership with WeWork, Amadeus and Agape Hospitality Consultants, the cafe aims to offer breakfast, lunch and snacks to those working and passing by WeWork Galaxy.
Source- The Hindu
The café, which is the brainchild of the executive director of Solidarity Foundation Shubha Chacko, was inaugurated by renowned theater actress Arundathi Nag and drag queen Alex Matthew Monday and began its operations Tuesday afternoon. As a part of the initiative, Amadeus is sponsoring two mobile food trucks that employ 12 members from the LGBTQIA+ community.
According to an Indian Express report, Sasha, an employee and member of the LGBTQIA+ community, said: “It’s comforting… Getting back to something that I always wanted to do is the biggest thing for me. When I first started my career in hospitality, I did not feel that support but now through the organization and my community, I feel safe…”
Going forward, the cafe employees will also receive training in English speaking, mental health and hospitality skills. The truck will operate from 10 am to 6 pm through the week.
“The options in our menu range from Indian to Continental, and our main focus is to serve young working individuals. Hence, our food will be something quick to eat and quick to take, while also being affordable. One can also taste the love with which the community members have come together to cook the food,” said Mario Pradeep, Head Chef at the Pride Café.
