At Gangstar Café, mornings begin long before our doors officially open at 7 a.m. As one of the first to arrive, I’m often met by the quiet stillness of the shop—a calm moment before the day begins.
My day kicks off with a few routines that set up everything for success. First up, I get the coffee machine up and running; this baby takes a good 15–20 minutes to heat up. From there, it’s off to the kitchen to bake some treats for the day and ensure our space is clean and ready for customers. By 7 a.m., Gangstar Café is open and ready to roll.
Morning Vibe & Familiar Faces
Between 7:00 and 7:30, our first customers arrive, often regulars who grab a coffee before catching the bus to work. Each cup brings a moment to connect—a “Good morning!” and sometimes even a joke about how they’re running late. That quick exchange, a laugh or two, puts a smile on both our faces as they head off, coffee in hand, to take on the day.
The early morning vibes are my favourite part. It’s a mix of people looking for a caffeine kick and those just wanting a cosy moment before the day begins. There’s a special about serving a cappuccino to people who rely on us to start their day.
What’s in a Name? The Story of Gangstar
One question that comes up a lot: “Gangstar? Are you all Gangsters ?” There’s always a laugh as I share the story behind the name and the journey that brought me here. “Gang is the past, but STAR is the future,” I say, and that’s the essence of Gangstar Café—transforming lives, giving second chances, and helping people like me find a place to shine.
Customers often ask, “Does buying coffee here really make a difference?” The answer is yes. Each cup of coffee contributes to the mission, helping ex-offenders regain their feet and build new futures. When customers hear that they’re part of something greater, it’s amazing to see them light up.
A Love for the Job
One of the things I love most about my job is the people. Every cup of coffee is a brief moment to connect with someone new or see a familiar face. We meet people from all different backgrounds, hear their stories, and share ours. Here at Gangstar, coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a bridge to new stories and a daily reminder that everyone deserves a fresh start. So next time you’re in the area, pop in, grab a cappuccino, and become a part of the change. ☕️
Written by Nicole and Lunigswa
