The new hotspot in the park is created through Rising You, a training organization that facilitates the integration of newcomers and, among other things, guides them towards the labor market. “At the end of last year we were awarded the concession for a social catering project in Parkloods SPRK,” says co-founder Benjamin Gérard. “Rising You submitted a strong dossier and was rewarded for it,” says Alderman of Sport Peter Wouters (N-VA).
Rising You has been active in the warehouse for years. Climbing training prepares people for jobs at great heights. “Up until now, we have mainly focused on technical training. This new catering story is the perfect way to change that,” says Gérard.
Construction is in full swing. — © Jan Van der Perre
“In Bar Nest, as the new business is called, we offer work experience to people who do not yet fully understand Dutch. We look at whether a job in the catering industry would be something for them. They serve visitors, stand behind the counter and perform other tasks. The business is run entirely by newcomers. In this way we want to prepare people to get started in the catering sector.”
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The opening of Bar Nest is scheduled for June 1. If the weather gods are kind to them, the first visitors can immediately take a seat on one of the two terraces. “These, just like the interior, were designed by newcomers from other Rising You courses,” says Gérard.
Benjamin Gérard from Rising You in SPRK. — © Dirk Kerstens
“On these terraces, customers enjoy traditional drinks and some tapas. The menu may be expanded gradually. During the winter period, we intend to offer full-fledged meals.”
Finally, Gérard would like to say a word about the name of the bistro. “The story behind Bar Nest is that we allow people from all over to land there. The talent is hatched there over a period of time and is given the opportunity to learn and develop skills. This way, they can then leave the nest well prepared and spread their wings towards a new job.”
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