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Hong Leong Bank Foundation and illy Malaysia Empower Underprivileged Communities Through Barista Training
On June 18th to 21st, 2024, the Hong Leong Bank Foundation conducted a significant training initiative aimed at uplifting individuals, particularly those associated with Silent Teddies. This transformative program, held at the UDC workshop and conducted by illy master barista Sulaimy, provided specialized barista training to seven individuals from Silent Teddies, including four who are hearing impaired. The objective was clear: to equip participants with valuable skills and open the door to job opportunities with illy Malaysia.
Silent Teddies plays a crucial role in this initiative. Their mission is to empower persons who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing with the right skill sets and knowledge to prepare them for employment, whether within Silent Teddies or beyond. This long-term project aims to generate income while providing employment opportunities and life skills training to help these individuals cope with everyday demands.
Silent Teddies, initiated as a self-help vocational training program by the Community Service for the Deaf (CSCD), was officially registered as a social enterprise on July 6, 2017, in Kuala Lumpur. Staffed primarily by Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, they won significant recognition, including the MaGIC Amplify Award in 2016. Furthermore, it was granted the Social Enterprise Accreditation Status by the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDAC) on December 23, 2019. A substantial number of Deaf youths have been trained and found employment through Silent Teddies. Part of the net proceeds from the sale of cookies and catering is allocated to support CSCD’s programs.
The Hong Leong Bank Foundation, in partnership with illy Malaysia, has created a learning environment that empowers individuals, regardless of their abilities. This collaboration underscores the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities in vocational training. illy Malaysia, renowned for its commitment to quality and excellence, has been instrumental in making this initiative a success.
During the three-day training program, participants were introduced to various coffee-making techniques. The classes covered essential aspects of coffee preparation, including Espresso and Cappuccino making, slow preparation methods, exploring the diverse aromas of coffee, and mastering latte art. These skills not only make the participants proficient baristas but also enhance their employability in the competitive coffee industry.
illy, with its rich 90-year history and dedication to using only 100% Arabica coffee, provided an ideal platform for this training. The company’s strict selection process ensures that only 1% of Arabica beans are chosen, guaranteeing a superior coffee experience. Participants had the opportunity to work with some of the finest coffee machines, including professional coffee machines and the Y3.3 Iperespresso Machine, X7.1 Iperespresso Machine, and the X1 Iperespresso Anniversary 1935 machine. These machines are renowned for their precision and consistency, making them perfect for both novice and experienced baristas.
Selina Fong from Silent Teddies commented, “Thank you Master Barista Sulaimy and his assistant Danial for the patience and coffee knowledge. Not only am I able to make a beautiful latte art but also the whole process of coffee making! I have also experienced serving a pretty cappuccino to a customer in illy Caffè Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. All the practices on latte art paid off, I will continue to practice more and hopefully in the future I am able to make an even more creative latte art coffee.”
Khew Yun Loi from Silent Teddies commented, “ A big thank you to Hong Leong Foundation & illy Caffè! I get to learn how to make a great cup of espresso! The experience in serving and coffee making in illy Caffè was amazing as well thanks to Master Barista Sulaimy & Danial! So grateful to be part of the training!”
Louis Chen Wai seng from Silent Teddies commented, “ Thank you Master Barista Sulaimy & Danial for the barista training. I am happy and thankful that illy and Hong Leong Bank Foundation came up with training for the deaf community. The coffee machine process to latte art all these training processes was taught with patients.”
Ms. Sue Yian, the executive director of the Hong Leong Bank Foundation stated “We are proud of our partnership with illy Malaysia, where together we have been able to provide specialized barista training to thirty-two underserved individuals eight of which are hearing impaired.
This initiative not only equips them with valuable skills but also opens the door to job opportunities with illy Malaysia At the Hong Leong Bank Foundation, we believe in the power of education and vocational training to transform lives.
The success of this training program underscores the importance of creating accessible learning environments for all individuals, regardless of their abilities. We hope to continue work with illy Malaysia, our pioneer partners in creating bridges towards employment with the private sector. With the right support, everyone can pursue their ambitions.
We look forward to continuing our efforts to promote inclusivity and empower more individuals through similar initiatives in the future with illy and other like – minded corporations.”
Additionally, illy Caffè’s presence in prime locations such as Pavilion KL, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Sunway Velocity Mall, and Hartamas Shopping Centre ensures that premium 100% arabica coffee is easily accessible to a wide audience. Moreover, illy is excited to announce the upcoming opening of another branch in Nu Sentral, further expanding our availability \.
The online store, illy.my, provides a convenient platform for customers to purchase their favorite illy products, including coffee and machines, ensuring that illy’s premium coffee experience is just a click away for consumers across the country.
In addition to individual sales, illy Malaysia also caters to corporate clients, providing coffee solutions for offices and events. Our catering services ensure that businesses can enjoy high-quality coffee during meetings and corporate gatherings, enhancing the overall experience for employees and guests.
The Hong Leong Bank Foundation is committed to continuing they efforts to empower individuals through education and vocational training. Our partnership between illy Malaysia and Hong Leong Bank Foundation serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when like-minded organizations come together for a common cause. We look forward to expanding our reach and impact, providing more opportunities for underserved communities to thrive.
In conclusion, the Hong Leong Bank Foundation‘s barista training program, in collaboration with illy Malaysia and supported by Silent Teddies Bakery, has successfully equipped thirty-two underserved individuals with valuable skills, paving the way for their future success. This initiative highlights the importance of inclusivity and accessible learning environments, and we are excited to continue our work with the Hong Leong Bank Foundation and other like-minded corporations to empower more individuals in the future.