Tender Hearts Cafe in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is more than just a social enterprise—it’s a place where young people with intellectual disabilities (PWID) gain independence, purpose, and confidence. It was created with a clear mission: to bridge the gap between school and employment for PWIDs.
The idea for the cafe came from Sharon Lee’s concern for her daughter, Su Anne, a Special Olympics Malaysia athlete, who is globally delayed and has an attention deficit disorder. Global developmental delay (GDD) is a condition that occurs when a child has significant delays in multiple areas of development. Sharon explains further, “I wanted to create a space for her where she has a job and is independent.” Her idea resonated with other mothers of PWIDs, some of whom were Special Olympics Malaysia athletes as well, who wanted to provide them with the opportunity to thrive. Sharon adds, “We’re not looking at making lots of money. It’s more for them to be able to do some work, instead of sitting at home.”
For many people with disabilities, finding employment can seem arduous due to societal bias, discrimination and limited opportunities. Tender Hearts offers a rare alternative- a space where young people with intellectual disabilities can develop essential work skills and social confidence in a supportive, inclusive environment. “It gives our kids the opportunity to be in the working world, to go out, meet with people, and interact,” says Siti Mariam, another mother involved with the cafe.
Despite the lack of experience in running a food business, the mothers of Tender Hearts pushed forward. “We were not trained,” says Siti. “Sharon is good at cooking, but we’ve never run a cafe.” Yet, every step forward, from baking cookies to running bazaars, was an accomplishment. This drive to create something sustainable and productive for their children has turned into a thriving space where youth gain skills and take pride in their work—no matter how small the tasks are, like wiping tables or serving customers.
Explaining the connection with Special Olympics Malaysia, Sharon shared how the former national director of Special Olympics Malaysia had volunteered at the café to support the PWIDs. The then director also recognised the potential in Su Anne, mentored her, and provided her with a public speaking opportunity to share her story at a Special Olympics Malaysia public event. Sharon recalled, “I was nervous at first, but when the opportunity was offered, I was so happy that Sue Anne wanted to do it.”
One such young person is Azri, who has been working at Tender Hearts for several years. He’s seen significant growth in his independence. “I like to serve. I like to wash. I can teach everyone,” Azri says proudly. Sharon adds, “He’s independent now. He knows when to clock in, where to put his bags, and what he needs to do next.”
For many of the youth at Tender Hearts, their jobs go beyond just getting tasks done—it’s about gaining responsibility, pride, and a sense of belonging. This sense of community is central to Tender Hearts. Siti shares, “My son always refers to his friends here as his brothers and sisters. It’s not just about work. It’s about caring for each other.” The cafe is a place where young people are not only valued for their work but for who they are as people.
Looking back on the journey, Sharon sees both progress and challenges. “We’ve survived over seven years. It’s not easy, but they’re learning to be independent and care for one another,” she says. The collaboration with Special Olympics has also been key in complementing these efforts in helping these young people lead independent and fulfilling lives.
The ultimate goal for Tender Hearts is to become a model of inclusion, where young people with intellectual disabilities can lead fully independent lives. “We hope one day this cafe will be run entirely by them,” says Siti. “They’ll know how to handle the accounting, the budgeting, the marketing… they’ll run it themselves.”
For now, Azri’s simple words capture the spirit of Tender Hearts: “I like working here. I want to stay here. It’s good here. I’m happy.” Happiness, after all, comes from having a sense of purpose—and for the youth at Tender Hearts, that purpose is exactly what they’ve found in this safe, inclusive space.
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