Asian happy family baking bakery with down syndrome's son in kitchen. Beautiful loving mother and father take care and teaching young man with autism or special needs cooking foods indoors at home.
Cover These local businesses are championing inclusivity
Asian happy family baking bakery with down syndrome's son in kitchen. Beautiful loving mother and father take care and teaching young man with autism or special needs cooking foods indoors at home.

These homegrown brands are on a mission to make a positive impact on society

Inclusivity is not just a buzzword these days, but a shared responsibility. Thankfully in Singapore, various local businesses are taking it upon themselves to become beacons of inclusivity, going beyond mere profit-making and activity contributing to social change.

These businesses are not just reshaping industries but also reshaping mindsets—proving that every individual has a valuable role to play in our society.

Through their commitment to empowerment, education and empathy, they’re creating a future where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background or abilities. So, the next time you’re looking to support a business, why not choose one that’s not only offering exceptional products and services but also making a positive impact on society? Here are five to discover around the island.

Read more: 5 local artisanal candle brands to know in Singapore

1. The Social Space

On top of promoting awareness for sustainability and conscious living, this multi-concept space is also a platform for differently-abled people to acquire skills. The brand provides over 50 beneficiaries with vocational training and employment—beneficiaries range from single mothers, ex-offenders, individuals with special needs and more. At the space, you can look forward to various environmentally and sustainability-conscious products sourced from 60 social enterprises and non-profit organisations from around the world. Products range from jewellery and bags to wall art and baked goods.

2. Foreword Coffee Roasters

Get your daily cuppa for a purpose at Foreword Coffee Roasters. This social enterprise cafe embraces inclusivity, providing employment opportunities to those with disabilities, special needs and mental health conditions. Here, find a range of pastries, including the tender beef pastrami croissant, banana custard specula’s muffin and Belgian liege waffles. Pair these delicious creations with a cup of Joe—a selection of roasts are available to choose from such as the caramel Muthian Thota; citrusy Yunnan Kaku; and chocolatey Dongka Washed.

3. Soul Food

Tatler Asia

Located in The Enabling Village, this restaurant puts focus on training and employing those with disabilities, in hopes of building a more inclusive society. Get to enjoy home-styled modern European cuisine in a private dining setting. Look out for dishes like the crispy porchetta, tender English-style pork ribs and roasted seasonal vegetables.

4. PLove Atelier

This social enterprise offers handcrafted leather gifts created by special-needs artisans. Founded on the belief that every special needs individual is gifted, PLove Atelier hopes to celebrate these individuals, regardless of their disabilities. Visit its website for a range of handcrafted keychains, bracelets, wallets and more.

5. The Nail Social

Treat yourself to a manicure session at this socially conscious nail salon. The salon helps local marginalised women by providing them with vocational training and employment in hopes of helping them progress to a more secure and self-sufficient position. The salon provides a range of services including gel polish, gel extensions and nail art. Pamper yourself and go for the luxe service, comprising nail shaping, cuticle care, gentle sea exfoliation and more.

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Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.