Haven Coffee in Walthamstow offers a warm space for refugees and asylum seekers, helping them integrate and thrive in the UK.
Walthamstow: Stepping into Haven Coffee, you’re greeted by the rich smell of organic coffee. Usman Khalid, the founder, is busy making himself a flat white.
This cozy café is one of two locations run by refugees. Usman started this venture in 2019 to create a welcoming space for those who’ve had to leave their homes.
Usman knows this journey well. He came to London in 2007 from Pakistan, seeking freedom from religious restrictions.
He believes coffee tells a story of migration. “It started in Ethiopia and now connects people everywhere,” he says. That’s what he aims to do with Haven Coffee.
But it’s not just about coffee. Haven Coffee offers barista training, art workshops, and even stand-up comedy classes for refugees and asylum seekers.
Usman proudly shares success stories, like two sisters who trained at Haven and now work at Costa Coffee. “It shows refugees are skilled and ready to contribute,” he adds.
He’s also on a mission to change how people view refugees. “They’re often seen as a burden, but they’re talented individuals wanting to build new lives,” he explains.
Usman’s path wasn’t easy. After arriving in the UK, he felt isolated and let down by those he trusted. “I faced a lot of loneliness,” he recalls.
Over time, he embraced London’s diversity. “I love this city! It connects you to people from all over the world,” he says.
Inspired by his experiences, Usman created Haven Coffee to provide a safe space for others.
Now, he’s looking for support to expand Haven Coffee’s mission. “We want to open more locations and continue our work. We need financial help to keep going,” he says.
Haven Coffee has spots in Walthamstow and Paddington. You can support them by visiting the cafés or buying coffee bags online.
