As we approach the end of the year, we can’t help but reflect on what an extraordinary journey 2024 has been – it’s hard to believe we’ve achieved so much in less than 12 months since opening our doors.
This time last year, we were building tables, painting chairs, and learning how to make the perfect coffee. The walls were bare, the floors were not finished, and our craft tables were untouched by paint and glitter. Fast forward to today, and it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come.
We never imagined just how much we could accomplish in a single year—or how our little café on South Street would grow into what it is now. One thing we’ve learned for sure: the community spirit in Chichester is alive and thriving.
If 2024 has taught us anything, it’s that when people come together, anything is possible.
What We’ve Achieved in 2024
Since opening in January here’s what we’ve accomplished:
Hosted over 100 craft clubs
Made countless toasties (possibly a million!)*
Supported 44 independent musicians by hosting 15 gigs
Delivered workshops and performed at Victorious Festival (thank you, Emma!)
Took young people to a recording studio (thank you, Music Fusion!)
Written enough songs to fill an album
Organised inspiring trips for young people to places like Pallant House Gallery, Chichester Festival Theatre, and The Spring Arts Centre
Collaborated with local artists, learning new skills (thank you, Ben Cavanagh, Salt Water Creations, and May Summers-Perkins!)
Worked closely with both CDC and Chichester City Council to put on opportunities for young people
Guided 7 young people to achieve their Bronze Arts Award, with others now working toward Silver and Gold
Showcased 4 cabaret shows, creating inclusive opportunities for young people to access the arts (thanks, Cilly, Amber, and guests!)
Created a safe space for young people to meet, create, and connect at our daily youth café (thank you, The Young People’s Shop, for teaming up with us!)
And so much more!
It hasn’t always been easy, and many of our achievements came through trial and error. But as we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited for what’s to come.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To everyone who has been part of our journey this year: thank you.
To our incredible customers: Your support and kindness have made everything we’ve accomplished possible.
To our amazing staff: Your hard work and dedication have brought this vision to life. Thank you for embracing my sometimes-crazy ideas, keeping the café running smoothly, and making it such a welcoming space.
To our volunteers and work experience students: You’ve added so much to our craft clubs and menu (special thanks to Molly, Ella & Jess!).
To our young people: You are at the heart of what we do. Watching you grow has been one of the greatest joys of this year, and we can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve next.
To my business partner, Daryl: Thank you for believing in my dream and making it a reality. I am forever grateful.
Here’s to 2025 and all the exciting things ahead, thank you for being part of this adventure - we couldn’t have done it without you!
*maybe 1 million is a bit of an exaggeration
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