Toybox is delighted to celebrate the reopening of Café 77, a social enterprise run by our local partner SathSath in Kathmandu. More than just a café, Café 77 is a space where street connected young people can gain skills, earn an income, and take confident steps towards a brighter future.
The café primarily aims to employ young people who have completed vocational training through the Skill, Empowerment and Employment Programme (SEEP), a programme designed to equip vulnerable young people with practical skills and long term employment opportunities.
Alongside serving food and drinks, the cafe also features a dedicated corner showcasing handmade crafts created by former street- connected children and young people, offering them a valuable source of income and a chance to share their skills and creativity.
For many young people in Kathmandu, the realities of street life expose them to constant risk and exploitation. It is hoped that Cafe 77 can play a crucial role in addressing these vulnerabilities by providing meaningful training and employment opportunities.
Smita Khanijow, Programme Manager at Toybox shares, "Café 77's a unique initiative by our partner, SathSath, created to economically empower street-connected youth. It's a really welcoming space where young people in street situations can rediscover their sense of worth and begin to imagine a brighter future."
SathSath's Executive Director, Biso Bajracharya concludes, "Cafe 77 has been more than just a business venture; it’s a social enterprise initiative of SathSath. It’s becoming a vibrant hub of opportunity and growth for the youth we serve. Witnessing them take ownership, develop new skills, and build self-confidence has been incredibly inspiring. Our hope is that this is just the beginning and that the cafe will continue to be a launchpad for their dreams, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout the community."
