Together with Marco van Dunnen, youth coordinator with the Rotterdam police, he has established a new venture. They teach these youngsters, often with a criminal past, the new trade of roasting coffee and move on to become a first class baristas. By producing and selling his premium coffee beans he also works on a sustainable business model ensuring a future for his trainees. Who will become his trainers of tomorrow.

Rodney van den Hengel is from the hood himself. He knows the street culture and the importance of one’s standing. He acknowledges the values of the young in his own neighbourhood of Delfshaven. He understands their choices in life. He sees where things go wrong. At the same time he strongly believes that everyone deserves a second chance.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx