An award winning entrepreneur has turned  his retail shop in to a community hub to create a  space for young peope to stay safe and nurture their creativity.

With the increase in knife crime on our streets and a decrease in community centres and youth clubs, Dexter Simms wanted to open a ‘safe haven’ for the local youths where they can have: “less time to idolise negativity and hang out on street corners.”

The CEO of Mula Cake has  transformed his personal retail business premises on London Road at 7 Brigstock Parade, Thornton Heath  in to a creative Community Hub.

Dexter said:  “Adventure playgrounds and community centres were a major part of my childhood which helped me stay focused on being creative in sport, staying out of trouble and this is where my best friendships were formed.”

As a result of all Dexter’s hard work and passion this year he was awarded Entrepreneur of the Year along with his company Mula Cake being awarded Business of the Year at the Croydon Business awards.

Dexter said: “Because of my personal up bringing this was a huge achievement for me and now with this recognition I hope it will open doors for many others after me.”

The space within the hub is being used for podcasting with equipment provided giving young people and adults alike a chance to have a go at creating their own Podcast.

 The online radio space is for young people or  local DJs to share music and talk about issues important to them regardless of culture, age or gender.

Vinyl  printing and t-shirt design and printing is offered on site for young fashion designers. 

 Extra English and maths classes are also available after school for children that need the extra support  and will be delivered by volunteer tutors giving their time for free.

The Hub  has not only created a safe haven for the youth but has also provided job and work experience for the local community.

It is open five days a week from 10.30am-5.30pm with weekend and after 6pm bookings available upon request.

Since launch on October 1 the Mula Cake Hub has helped over 35 people from the local community with creative projects, business advice, voluntary work and the feed back has been “absolutely incredible” said Dexter.

The award winning entrepreneur will be offering free business advice and mentoring  every Tuesday on a four week programme.

www.mulacake.com