On Monday, 29 January, Lower Secondary students, accompanied by their class teacher Marija Milić, who also teaches them business, visited the local café “Zvuci srca” and its workshop. The cafe, known for its unique approach to social enterprise, has been successfully operating for five years, providing employment and training opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. The visit helped students get acquainted with the practical aspects of business, emphasising the positive impact such enterprises can have on the community.
The students were warmly welcomed by Nemanja, Milica, and Milena, dedicated employees of the café. Despite facing various challenges, they showed their skills and passion for their work. The café’s distinctive feature is its unconventional payment system – customers can pay as much as they want, with their motto being:
“You can pay with a smile and a kind conversation.”
These visits provide a different, broader perspective on life and experience that will enhance what is learned
The informative part included a detailed explanation of the day-to-day activities in the café and workshop. Students gained insights into the production process of items such as tote bags and mugs, witnessing firsthand the dedication and creativity involved in the work. The accompanying small shop, adorned with products crafted in the workshop, displayed an array of magnets, T-shirts, badges, and mugs.
During their Business lessons, the students can learn more about theory but these visits and interactions with workers and owners add value to what was learned in theory, providing a different, broader perspective on life and experience that will enhance what is learned.
“In the cold world we live in, where everything revolves around money, a sight like this is truly special”
“My impressions are very positive because “Zvuci srca” proves that every person deserves a chance. I think the service was phenomenal and the whole walkthrough of their work was extraordinary. In the cold world we live in, where everything revolves around money, a sight like this is truly special. All the people who work there, as well as those who made it possible, deserve all the love and support”, said Mateja Baketarić, a Year 9 student.
This visit not only broadened the students’ understanding of social enterprises but also left a lasting impact on their perspectives toward inclusivity, compassion, and the potential of individuals with diverse abilities. Such initiatives not only contribute to the local community but also serve as valuable lessons in empathy and respect for the students of our school.
