Aruba to Open First Inclusive Café-Restaurant, Run by Young People with Disabilities
ORANJESTAD – At the Council of Ministers in Cocolishi, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was recently signed between the Government of Aruba and the Trampolin pa Trabou Foundation, marking a new step in their collaboration.
Prime Minister Mike Eman signed the agreement together with Caroll Kock and Marlyn Maduro, representatives of the Trampolin pa Trabou Foundation. The project’s central goal is inclusion: young people with disabilities will be given the opportunity to showcase their talents and take on a leading role.
The government will make the facilities at MFA Paradera available as the location for Aruba’s first inclusive café-restaurant, where young people with disabilities, aged 17 and older, will be the driving force. The café will fittingly be called “One of a Kind.”
Prime Minister Eman emphasized the importance of cooperation between the government and the foundation: “This project creates opportunities for people with disabilities, who have great talents and abilities to contribute to our society.” He noted that the MFA buildings were originally designed to serve as spaces for initiatives that benefit the community, making this café a perfect example of that vision.
The location has now officially been allocated to the Trampolin pa Trabou Foundation, which will develop the One of a Kind Café under the leadership of young people with disabilities. The initiative is truly unique and highlights the value of inclusion.
Prime Minister Eman expressed his appreciation to the Trampolin pa Trabou Foundation and congratulated them on their groundbreaking work in support of people with disabilities in Aruba. This initiative further strengthens the foundation’s mission to promote inclusion within the community.
The project also aligns seamlessly with the vision behind Aruba’s MFA centers: bringing communities together under one roof and contributing to the well-being of society. In addition, the collaboration will be free of charge, giving this inspiring initiative an extra boost.
Foundation chair Marlyn Maduro explained that the idea originated several years ago and is now finally becoming a reality. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the support and trust received, and also thanked the organizations present at the signing, including the Dino Foundation. Maduro wished the project team much success and extended an open invitation to the entire island to visit the café once its doors open.