Hobart social enterprise Hamlet is celebrating 10 years of empowering Tasmanians facing barriers to employment through hospitality training that builds skills, confidence and connection.
Since opening its doors in 2016, Hamlet has delivered more than 60,000 hours of training and supported almost 800 Tasmanians through its programs.
The organisation, founded by Tasmanian Local Hero award recipient Emily Briffa, runs a cafe, catering arm and condiment production line in Hobart’s Molle Street.
Its programs support people with disability, neurodivergence and mental health concerns to improve their chances of finding meaningful work in tourism and hospitality.
In the last financial year, 68% of program graduates went on to secure employment or further education.
To mark the milestone, Hamlet is running celebrations from May 12 to 22, including free coffee for every visitor on Wednesday May 13 and free cake on Tuesday, May 19.
It will also host a pop-up mini market on Monday, May 18, featuring local producers and artisans including Felds Farm, Troublesmiths and Duncan Meerding Design.
Hamlet is using the anniversary to launch a new initiative called Next Shift.
The project will see Hamlet graduates extend their career pathway through employment with selected local businesses.
It has been fully funded for its first two years by an anonymous philanthropic trust and aims to help both participants and employers create inclusive and lasting employment outcomes.
Briffa said the 10-year milestone reflected the community’s ongoing support.
“As an enterprise that exists to serve and support our community, this milestone is a testament to the ongoing support and belief that this work matters, from our community, partners, funders, and government,” she said.
“While we’re so proud to celebrate how far we’ve come over the past 10 years, we’re even more excited about creating more opportunities and driving lasting change into the future.”
The community can support Hamlet’s work by dining at the cafe, purchasing a gift voucher, making a donation or exploring a corporate partnership.
