The Arohata Project In 2013 Peoples Coffee launched a project to provide barista training to inmates of Arohata Women’s Prison and after a 2014 hiatus the project is back with renewed focus.
‘The aim is to provide real, transferable skills outside of the ‘traditional women’s work’ the prison offers.
There was an overwhelmingly positive response from the trainees when we launched the project in 2013, so we decided to run the programme again.’ Liv Doogue – General Manager, Peoples Coffee Peoples Coffee set the women up with the machines and equipment, provide the coffee & milk as well as the two baristas that run the course.
The course will run twice weekly for two weeks with up to 16 inmates having the opportunity to participate.
Peoples barista trainers will take the group through the entire cup–to–crop process, teaching espresso presentation and customer service skills along the way.
The final lesson will include a written test and a ‘role–play’ scenario where the trainees will be tested on their theory and practitcal knowledge of espresso–presentation.
A certificate of completion will be awarded to all those who complete the course.
“It is the main intention of the programme to provide an opportunity for women to learn real and credible skills that can be translated to a real job outside of prison.”
Tracey Wernicki - Programme Co-ordinator, Arohata Women’s Prison JustSpeak The Arohata Project is just one part of Peoples efforts to invest in local projects that benefit marginalised New Zealanders.
Peoples barista trainer Lauren Tennent is a criminology major and a member of JustSpeak; a non–for–profit network of young people speaking to, and speaking up for a new generation of thinkers who want change in our criminal justice system.
JustSpeak hold regular events on a range of topics and attendance is generally open to the public — Peoples serve complimentary coffee at these events and free and frank coversation is encouraged.
‘Our recent forum on problematic drug use provided a non-judgemental space for open discussion on some policy changes that have historically been controversial.
The turn-out was great, our audience was responsive and the feedback was really positive!’ Lauren Tennent - Barista Trainer, Peoples Coffee The Big Sleepout 2015 marks the 6th year of the Lifewise Big Sleepout and Peoples first year supporting the cause.
The Big Sleepout is a fundraiser to tackle the growing issue of homelessness in Auckland and Rotorua.
There are more than 100 people sleeping rough in Auckland’s city centre alone, and thousands of vulnerable people living in unsafe or unsuitable accommodation.
Peoples will be providing coffee to over 150 influential movers and shakers giving up their home comforts to sleep rough for the night.
This year the organisation is aiming high – hoping to raise $250,000.00 for their critical services.
