Boss & Brew Academy

Boss & Brew Academy is a vibrant social enterprise dedicated to addressing youth unemployment and boosting young people’s confidence and well-being through the art of coffee. Many young people in Cardiff, especially those from BAME communities and socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, can struggle to access meaningful employment opportunities, and are faced with limited career pathways and skills gaps.

Boss & Brew Academy helps young people by offering free barista training and employability courses that equip participants with practical skills in customer service, teamwork, and coffee craftsmanship. Their comprehensive programme includes short, intensive training sessions, weekly drop-in support events, and real-world work experience opportunities through collaborations with local coffee shops and employers. This innovative approach not only develops technical abilities but also builds self-esteem and social connections among young people.

Founded in 2021 during the challenging pandemic period, Boss & Brew Academy was born from founder Natalie Hodgkinson’s passion for education and her personal love of coffee. Drawing on her background as a maths teacher, Natalie created an alternative pathway for youth empowerment. Supported by a dedicated leadership team, the organisation has grown steadily, creating positive social and economic impact in Cardiff.

Boss & Brew Academy will use the grant from John Good Group to deliver barista training courses, enabling up to18 young people to gain essential skills in barista techniques, employability, food hygiene, team building, and customer service. The grant will also help provide paid work experience at corporate events, where trainees earn the UK Living Wage. This targeted funding will boost confidence and employability, helping young people take their first steps into long-term careers in hospitality.