İs making headlines for exclusively hiring people with Down syndrome. The aptly named ‘Down Café’ employs staff between the ages of 18 and 25, and aims to empower them with self-confidence and independence.

Saruhan Singen, who founded the café in the Sisli district of Istanbul, said that he was inspired by his own experience of raising a daughter with Down syndrome. She now works at the café as well. “I have Sezil and I think she is a gift to me  to understand others like her,” Singen said. “When we think about the number of people with Down syndrome, there is not a wide range of career paths available.”

According to Turkey’s National Down Syndrome Association, nearly 1,500 babies are born with the condition in the nation each year. It’s estimated that there are currently over 100,000 people with Down syndrome living in Turkey . According to Singen, “Improved medical care is absolutely essential for these special kids but it is more important that we must do everything possible to help them live more independent and fulfilling lives.”

Singen revealed that when he first opened the café in 2011, business was slow. People would hesitate to enter when they learned about the special staff, but the few who did enter were able to appreciate the ambiance, once the initial surprise wore off. It wasn’t long before the place was teeming with patrons, all impressed with the kind of service provided.