Taen (23) first connected with Castle NDIS services with a goal to build skills and find a job. With those skills he's now gaining real-world experience, volunteering in a community cafe and aiming to build a career in hospitality.
When he first connected with Castle, Taen, who lives with autism, identified his main challenges as the confidence to try new things
“I guess getting out of my comfort zone ... to find employment,” he says.
Like many people building towards work, taking that first step wasn’t easy. But through Castle Café, Taen began developing skills in a supportive, hands-on environment.
At Castle Café, he learned practical hospitality skills including taking orders, operating a commercial coffee machine, planning and preparing simple menus, handling money, and following kitchen and food safety practices. Just as importantly, he built confidence through routine and working alongside others in a real café setting.
Castle Cafe participants learning barista skills
When an opportunity came up to volunteer at Soul Hub, Taen felt confident to take the next step.
“I was like, you know what, I might as well try to do something new.”
Soul Hub is a community organisation in Newcastle supporting people experiencing homelessness with meals and essential services. The volunteer-run service is open to guests 7 days a week, providing breakfast, as well as access to medical, social and employment support.
Now volunteering as a barista, Taen has brought his cafe skills into a busy, real-world setting. His Castle Café experience meant he quickly became confident using the coffee machine.
“At first I was hesitant… but then I got used to it pretty quickly,” Taen says.
“Taen is doing really well, he has certainly gained confidence, he is contributing to the team, and he is genuinely enjoying making coffees for our Soul Hub guests,”. “He makes a really good coffee, too!”
John, Guest Support Coordinator at Soulhub
Volunteering has also helped Taen build confidence, independence, and routine. He travels by bus from Jesmond and often arrives early to set up the café.
“When I get there early, setting up the machine takes a while. I like getting there early to make sure everything’s already set up.”
At 23, Taen’s goal remains the same.
“I still want to at least find a job. That was my goal, and it still is.”
He has completed his RSA and is now looking to complete his RCG to open up further hospitality opportunities.
Taen’s journey shows how supported learning and volunteering can build real skills, confidence, and pathways toward employment.
