"The power of coffee"

“I owe Communities 1st such a lot,” Gabriela explained to me over a delicious cup of coffee at the Communities Thirst coffee point in the St Albans Civic Centre where she gives her time as a volunteer. Gabiela continued, “Communities 1st has helped me learn English, taught me new skills, and given me greater confidence. Without Communities 1st I would not be where I am today.”

I was sitting with a slightly nervous but nevertheless very engaging, young woman with a shy smile whose confidence grew as we continued our discussion. I felt we bonded over our shared loved of coffee. Gabriela clearly loves her coffee! As do I! We compared notes. Gabriela drinks four cups of coffee a day. I drink five! She added that people where she comes from generally prefer tea.

From a world away to St Albans

Gabriela, as a refugee, came to this country some three years ago and was found accommodation in a hotel in St Albans. That was how she first came across Communities 1st which was providing support, information, and advice to refugees. “When I first came to St Albans I could speak no English. I was very shy. I had no confidence,” she explained. Through Communities 1st she started to learn English. “There was one worker, Anh*, who was patient with me. I liked talking to her,” she smiled. “She is peaceful. She listens. She’s really nice.”  

Gabriela also went to a local church and Oaklands College to learn English.

“I love the church” Gabriela confided. Clearly her Christian faith is important. “I spend a lot of time there. The people are very friendly. There are volunteers teaching English and they have helped me a lot.” With a smile she added, “I call them my grandmothers.”

Gabriela started volunteering with Communities 1st, initially, helping with office jobs in Ver House, the organisation’s main office.  

Then, last November, Gabriela started volunteering on the coffee cart at St Albans Civic Centre. This was a new project with volunteers serving fresh coffee, teas, hot chocolate, soft drinks and light snacks to people working in or visiting the building. Sometimes it can be very busy and pressurised. Gabriela was taught the different names of the coffees and how to make them. She learnt how to use the equipment and keep it thoroughly clean. Also, how to process the payments.  

“When I started, I was really scared,” she admitted. “My English was so bad, and I was worried that I’d give people the wrong drinks.” However, she got to know her customers and found that they were very patient while she was learning. Soon she became very adept as a barista. She is now sharing her skills. She introduced me to Vanessa, the manager of the coffee cart, who explained, “Gabriela is the best.  She has taught us to make the best hot chocolate in St Albans.”

I thought this sounded irresistible and that, in the interests of research, I must sample the product.  So, I dug deep into my pocket, Gabriela demonstrated her skills, and…  “Mmmm! It was good.” Gabriela confessed that she too loves hot chocolate, “particularly at Christmas, when you can add flavourings and spices.”

Vanessa added that Gabriela is scrupulous in keeping the equipment and surroundings very clean. As, of course, do the other volunteers and staff. Is it any wonder that the Coffee Cart holds a prestigious five-star rating from the Food Standards Agency!

Gabriela has learnt valuable skills and gained worthwhile experience.  It is so much more than simply serving a cup of coffee.  She has become much more confident in herself and in her English. “I am no longer scared, and I enjoy talking to the customers.” And I can confirm that her English is good.

If I volunteer, I can say thank you    

I asked Gabriela why she volunteers. She thought carefully. “This country has helped me a lot. It has given me a new life. If I volunteer, I can say thank you. It is like putting something back.”  

A job and somewhere to live    

Gabriela’s story has a happy outcome. Drawing on her experience, she has recently taken up a job working in a local café. She is earning a wage, and this has enabled her to find her own her own place to live. She moved in about a month ago. “I’m happy, really happy,” she smiled, “Communities 1st has made this possible.”  

A cappuccino … with or without chocolate?  

I asked Gabiela a difficult question. Not being a cappuccino person, tentatively I inquired whether she liked chocolate sprinkled on top. She laughed, “No chocolate for me – that would make it a mocha!”  

On a more serious note, I asked about her longer-term plans. She reflected, “I’d like a job with people. I enjoy helping people. I’d particularly like to be able to help people who are refugees.” Things are looking up for Gabriela – and for St Albans’ coffee aficionados!