Towards the end of 2025, a small group of Soul Hub Guests were involved in something special, our first Guest Engagement Program. This five week program invited Guests to take part in candle making, supported by staff and volunteers who worked alongside them throughout. The focus of the program was on bringing people together around a practical task, empowering our Guests through learning new skills and contributing to a tangible outcome, whilst providing opportunities for social connection and community .
Each week had its own rhythm. The team put their aprons on, listened to the plan for the session and stepped into their roles. From week one, the flow of the work began to take shape, with Guests finding their place in the team. One guest kept the wax melting, another placed wicks into the glass jars (and joked about not getting on anyone’s ‘wick’!) and another poured the wax with slow concentration, while the scent of French Pear drifted through the kitchen. A highlight of every session was, of course, the well earned afternoon tea break. Whilst enjoying delicious cakes and great conversations, friendships were formed and the group found themselves forgetting the world outside. One Guest summed it up simply:
“For four hours it has helped me forget what is going on out there.”
The Guests were involved in every step of the process, from choosing the scent names and shaping the label design to hand-pouring and packaging every candle. One Guest said, “It is something you can be proud of, your commitment to coming here and participating with like minded people and the volunteers.” Another shared, “I look forward to coming here every Tuesday and will really miss it.” When asked about the best part of the program, the answer was immediate. “The friendship.”
Over 500 candles were handcrafted across the five sessions. Some will be given as thank you gifts to Soul supporters and some sold to help support future Guest Engagement initiatives. This program was also a learning experience for Soul as we explore ways to build more opportunities that empower our Guests, support skill building and offer valuable social connection. We hope this will be the first of many programs to come.
For the Guests who took part this was more than candle making. It was purpose, routine, teamwork and the simple joy of being part of something worth showing up for. Thank you to all the Guests & volunteers involved in the program.
