A charity has opened the doors of its second shop this week in the former Slug and Lettuce building in Wimbledon.
The National Institute for African Studies sells clothes, furniture, books, and jewellery and, from next week, the upstairs floor in Hartfield Road will enable young people from the community to learn about the creative industry as photographers will be using the space as a studio.
In this way, the charity has the unique ability to help not only lobby for development in Africa, but also provide opportunities for disadvantaged people in Wimbledon.
Its current site is temporary, with the building due to become hotel in the next few years, but Luci Rocha, the part-time manager, intends for NIAS to have a permanent place in the community.
DOUBLE ACT: Luci Rocha and Anne-Lise Michelot
Current voluntary intern, Anne-Lise Michelot, 25, from Lewisham, said the first day of business was a success, especially considering there was very little advertisement and it isn’t on the main high street.
Volunteer manager Luci Rocha, 44 from Highgate, expressed the sentiment of wanting to give back and make the world better after a successful career in management.
This charity shop is fuelled by the generosity of the community and reliance on willing volunteers to help its cause.
If you would like to volunteer, have any donations or would just like to browse than pop into the shop.
