You’ve all heard about Kickstarter, haven’t you? Kickstarter is the world’s largest funding platform for creative projects, and I used to spend a lot of time browsing all the cool innovations on their platform. One of these items was HuskeeCup, a cup with universal lid and saucer, made from repurposed coffee husks and distributed by Foreword Coffee. Foreword Coffee and HuskeeCup are embracing sustainable function with these lightweight and stylish reusable takeaway cups.
Here in Singapore, Wei Jie (WJ) and Nadi (N) from Foreword Coffee contacted me about HuskeeCup which I was, of course, keen to get my hands on. But beyond that, I love Foreword Coffee’s mission. They empower persons with disabilities and special needs (differently-abled persons) by providing employment and skills training in the F&B industry.
I’m pleased to have met the guys from Foreword Coffee and have them tell me a little bit about themselves and their journey.
Tell us a little bit about yourselves
WJ: Graduated from NUS with a degree in Psychology not too long ago. Did internships with social enterprises during my undergraduate years and started Foreword Coffee during my final year in university!
N: Graduated from NUS with Degree in Economics and Geography just last month.
How did you get started. How did it all begin?
WJ: It started with wanting to create greater visibility for persons with autism. The idea for coffee came along during my student exchange programme when I got in touch with the third wave coffee culture in Amsterdam. Merging the heart for people, craft for coffee, and seeing the need for a sustainable business model to carry out what I want to do, Foreword Coffee was born.
N: I Wanted to start my own company and met Wei Jie to talk about my idea – I decided I needed more experience, and he decided he needed help.
What is your favourite part of what you do?
WJ: Seeing how our people enjoy what they do, and enjoying the lifestyle of an entrepreneur – meeting new people, learning new things every day!
Nadi: Solving problems that come along the way for the company!
Is there any advice you’d give to someone who wants to start a business for themselves?
WJ: Be stubborn but don’t hesitate to seek help. It is a tough and long journey, remember to pace yourself well. Self-care is important and surround yourself with supportive friends and family!
N: Don’t be afraid to jump at opportunities that come your way!
What do you do for fun?
WJ: I watch movies, run, eat our local hawker fare or ramen, and cafe-hop!
N: I enjoyScuba diving and playing with my cat.
Favorite place/s to eat and what do you eat?
WJ: Standing Sushi Bar for the occasional sashimi craving! I’m always there for their $3 sashimi deal on Mondays and Thursdays 😉
N: Hawker centres – depending on my mood, but I love Maggi mee
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