HISTORY:

In 2015, Inkululeko opened Common Ground Cafe in Makhanda, South Africa, with the support of the John Ben Snow Memorial Trust and the Rotary Club of Grahamstown/Makhanda.

With one of the highest unemployment rates in the world at 32,9 % according to Statistics South Africa, the Common Ground Cafe gives the next generation of learners a place to engage positively in their environment. It also offers an opportunity to learn and create valuable business skills that will serve them long after they leave Inkululeko.

The Common Ground Cafe Model has constantly been finding ways to improve its support for students since its opening in 2015. The overarching goal of implementing this social enterprise unit is to support local individuals to become entrepreneurs to grow the South African economy.

COVID-19 CHANGES: 

What began as an alternative to Inkululeko’s support program for individuals who cannot pursue higher education due to the cost barrier expenses quickly needed adjustments once COVID hit. Like many other organizations, COVID forced the Common Ground Cafe to shut down because of a lack of revenue and funding. This was when we realized the model originally used for the Common Ground Cafe was not financially viable and needed change. 

While working with Rhodes University, the Common Ground Cafe created a social entrepreneurship course for local entrepreneurs. By strengthening relationships with Rhodes University and allowing local entrepreneurs to gain an accredited certificate, we hope this cafe gives students the confidence and support to apply for jobs and funding. 

MOVING FORWARD:

As the world has shifted, we have too. This cafe allows young learners and teachers to support each other and grow in the community. 

In 2022, the entrepreneurs working at the Common Ground Cafe faced increased load shedding, which are routine power outages that can last up to 12 hours per day. Additionally, there are frequent, long lasting water outages that can last weeks at a time.  In response, Mziyanda Bulani, Dambisa Zenani and Christina Chinoera came up with ideas on how to make and sell food. without it impacting the Cafe’s Business. 

In Spring 2023, the first major upgrade to the cafe was completed since its founding including theaddition of a plug point, painting of both the interior and exterior, installation of a large water tank which collects rain from a slanted roof. The exterior work was supported by the University of Michigan Global Scholars Program and Michigan Community Scholars Program as part of a study abroad experience.