Deaf entrepreneurs bring First Argentine Sign Language Coffee Shop to Life
Two deaf entrepreneurs are looking to shake up the coffee scene with Argentina’s first café catering entirely to the needs of the deaf community. Hugo Farfán and Mariano González have long dreamed of opening CaféLSA to remove communication barriers and promote employment opportunities for deaf individuals.
With nearly a decade of planning, CaféLSA aims to address unemployment faced by many deaf people through staffing the café exclusively with deaf baristas, cashiers and waitstaff. “By generating jobs, we directly contribute to the labor inclusion and economic empowerment of our deaf community,” explained Farfán. More than providing coffee, the socially-minded venture strives to showcase deaf culture and talents through artist collaborations, books penned by deaf authors, and informative materials on sign language.
Originally entering a national entrepreneurship competition to fund their vision, CaféLSA fell just short of the prize last year. Undaunted, the partners launched a crowdfunding campaign to get their green bean groove on. With community backing, they’ve upgraded the space at their Alberdi Street location in Salta with equipment, furniture and supplies.
Their inclusive service style immerses patrons in the visual magic of Argentine Sign Language. “Customers leave having learned to place their order in LSA – it’s an added value to communicate in another language with deaf people,” noted Farfán. Beyond buzzing beverages, CaféLSA aims to brew cross-cultural connections and shift perceptions of deaf abilities through positive dining experiences.
By showcasing deaf talent and prioritizing accessibility, CaféLSA promises to serve up something truly special. With a little more community caffeine, their dreams of being the nation’s premier destination for inclusive industry interaction may soon be fully realized. To lend an ear – and hands – to their efforts, visit http://cafecito.app/cafelsa. Every contribution helps this pioneering project percolate.