A partnership bringing people together over coffee, conversation and community has been recognised as a finalist in the 2026 Manningham Community Awards.

Onemda's Embrace Café, which operates from Calvary Millward Aged Care in Doncaster East, has been named one of three finalists in the Inclusive Community Award, recognising initiatives that foster inclusion and strengthen community connections.

Since launching at Calvary Millward in late 2024, Embrace Café has created meaningful opportunities for people living with disability to develop practical hospitality skills while building confidence, workplace experience and connections within the local community.

Each week, participants from Onemda's Pathways to Independence and Employment program prepare food, make coffees and serve customers from the café, working alongside Calvary staff and volunteers in a welcoming, real-world hospitality environment.

For Calvary Millward residents, the café has become much more than somewhere to enjoy a coffee. It offers a familiar social experience, creating opportunities to connect with younger members of the community, meet new people and enjoy meaningful conversations.

Calvary Millward Manager Joy Ncube said when the partnership was established, the goal was to create greater connection between residents and the wider community.

"Before our residents came to live with us, they used to go and have a coffee at their local café. Through Embrace Café, they continue to enjoy that experience while connecting with new people."

The partnership reflects a shared commitment between Calvary and Onemda to creating opportunities where everyone feels welcome, valued and included.

The finalist recognition is a wonderful acknowledgement of the impact Embrace Café continues to have on participants, residents, families and the wider Manningham community.

Calvary congratulates Onemda, its participants, volunteers and staff on this well-deserved recognition, and is proud to partner in an initiative that continues to foster connection, build confidence and create a genuine sense of belonging.