Our Story

Silent Café was founded with a simple yet powerful vision: to prove that inclusion can be both meaningful and sustainable. What began as a Deaf-owned coffee and dining space has grown into a social enterprise that connects communities through coffee, culture, and sign language.

Every cup tells a story of empowerment. Every sign builds a bridge between communities. At Silent Café, we don't just serve coffee – we serve connection, understanding, and hope.

Our signature concept, Dine & Sign, invites guests to experience Ugandan Sign Language in an inclusive setting, creating a place where Deaf and hearing communities meet, learn, and enjoy together.

Silent Café ambience showing welcoming atmosphere and inclusive environment

Silent Café interior showcasing inclusive dining space and community atmosphere

Meet Our Managing Director – Nasser Ssenyondo

At the heart of Silent Café's vision is Nasser Ssenyondo, our founder and Managing Director. His journey — from growing up in a coffee-farming family, becoming Deaf at the age of 10, and facing exclusion from school — inspired him to create a space where coffee is not only about taste, but also about empowerment.

Nasser believes that every cup can change a life, and his passion for Deaf inclusion, fair opportunities, and sustainable farming practices drives Silent Café's mission today. His story reflects the values we live by: empowerment, equality, and community.

National Independence Diamond Jubilee Medal awarded to Nasser Ssenyondo by President Yoweri Museveni

Presidential Recognition: On behalf of the Government of Uganda, H.E. President Yoweri Museveni recognized Nasser Ssenyondo's innovative work and awarded him/Silent Café the National Independence Diamond Jubilee Medal during International Day Celebrations on 1st May at Nakapiripirit district.

Follow Nasser on LinkedIn

Our Founder's Journey: From Coffee Fields to Community Empowerment

Early Life in Coffee Fields

Nasser's early life was shaped by coffee. Raised by parents who farmed coffee in rural Uganda, he saw firsthand how the crop sustained livelihoods. The aroma of sun-dried beans and the rhythms of farming became part of his identity.

Overcoming Challenges

When he lost his hearing as a child, his school refused to take him back. During those four years out of school, he worked on the family plantation—learning the economic power of a single harvest and developing resilience.

Vision for Change

While many Deaf Ugandans face barriers to employment due to a lack of access and awareness, Nasser turned his personal experience into purpose. With a strong foundation in coffee and a desire to challenge stereotypes, he envisioned a business that would empower others like him.

Silent Café is Born

Silent Café was born from that vision. Today, the café collaborates with Deaf farmers in Eastern Uganda and uses coffee and sign language as tools to build inclusive communities. Every cup served supports rural Deaf livelihoods and opens up space for understanding and connection between Deaf and hearing people.

Redefining Belonging

Nasser's journey is a powerful reminder that disability is not a weakness—it's a resource. Through inclusive business, cultural exchange, and community-driven values, Silent Café is redefining what it means to belong.

Who We Are

Deaf-Owned & Driven

Silent Café is proudly run by Deaf entrepreneurs, alongside a diverse team of Deaf and hearing staff.

Happy and diverse Silent Café staff members smiling together, representing inclusion and community

Empowering Farmers

We work directly with more than 2,000 local coffee farming families many of whom are Deaf, persons with disabilities, women, and youth.

Deaf farmers participating in agricultural training session in coffee fields

Inclusive Workspaces

From our café floor to our farmer network, we prioritize creating opportunities where everyone belongs.

Our Team

Silent Café team members - a diverse group of Deaf and hearing staff working together in an inclusive environment

United by Purpose, Empowered by Diversity

At Silent Café, our strength lies in our diverse and inclusive team. We are proud to be a workplace where Deaf and hearing team members work side by side, each bringing unique perspectives, skills, and experiences that enrich our community.

Our Deaf team members are not just employees – they are leaders, innovators, and ambassadors of Deaf culture. They guide our mission of inclusion, teach sign language to our hearing colleagues and customers, and demonstrate daily that Deaf individuals are capable of excellence in every aspect of business operations.

From our skilled baristas who craft the perfect cup while communicating fluently in Ugandan Sign Language, to our managers who lead with empathy and understanding, to our trainers who work directly with farmers in the field – every team member contributes to creating an environment where communication transcends spoken words.

Together, we've built more than just a café – we've created a model of what inclusive employment looks like. Our team proves that when barriers are removed and opportunities are created, everyone thrives. This is the heart of Silent Café: a place where diversity is celebrated, abilities are recognized, and every voice – whether spoken or signed – is heard and valued.

Our Impact Chain

Every cup tells a story of empowerment:

Farmers

Trained in coffee agronomy, climate-smart agriculture, and fair trade practices.

Silent Café

Roasting, packaging, and serving with care.

Customers

Enjoying premium coffee while supporting livelihoods and equality.

Together, we're proving that coffee can change lives, protect the planet, and bring people together.

About Silent Café