In the vibrant neighborhood of Sherman Heights, a community-minded coffee shop has established its permanent residence as a foundational member of 1835 Studios. The studio is a dynamic creative hub that brings together retail, art, and event venues. Cafe X: By Any Beans Necessary, co-owned by Khea Pollard and Cynthia M. Ajani, first opened its doors on El Cajon Boulevard in late 2019. However, due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 shutdown, the coffee shop was compelled to close its doors temporarily.
With a renewed spirit, Cafe X throws open its doors on Imperial Avenue, instantly captivating both locals and visitors. This inspiring coffee shop draws profound inspiration from its namesake, Malcolm X, as it embarks on a mission to create an indelible positive impact within the community. While many associate Malcolm X with self-defense, Khea Pollard, one of the cafe’s co-owners, envisions a broader perspective. Pollard finds inspiration in Malcolm X’s unwavering love for Black people, his deep appreciation for Black culture, and his unwavering dedication to empowering the Black community economically. Cafe X emerges as a powerful symbol of aspiration and transformation, ready to make its mark once again
Cafe X is passionately committed to addressing racial and gender inequalities while supporting generational wealth building in under-served communities. In collaboration with the Black Women’s Resilience Project, the coffee shop has initiated a groundbreaking program that provides a guaranteed income to Black women. This visionary project offers supplemental income to Black women aged 25-50 who earn 30-50% less than the area’s median income in San Diego. Participants in the program not only receive a guaranteed income but also engage in workshops that focus on vital aspects of economic mobility, mental health, and self-actualization. These workshops serve as transformative tools, paving the way for long-term socioeconomic improvement and personal growth. To learn more, visit Cafe X.
Beyond serving excellent coffee and pastries, Cafe X actively fosters a sense of community by hosting a wide range of events and workshops. These include health, exercise, and diabetes workshops, writers’ circles, organizing meetings, open mic nights, fundraisers, and much more. What sets Cafe X apart is its sustainable model for growth and expansion, ensuring long-term success while simultaneously empowering the community.
To further strengthen community engagement, Cafe X has formed a community stakeholder group called the Xperts. Comprising individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise, the Xperts advise the cafe on various aspects of its business operations. Cafe X strives to create meaningful internships that offer young individuals potential pathways to fulfilling careers within the cooperative. By nurturing and supporting the next generation, Cafe X envisions a future where communities flourish and opportunities abound.
Cafe X encourages individuals to take pride in their identities and offers a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy a cup of coffee and indulge in delectable pastries crafted by a talented independent baker. The experience at Cafe X is bound to surprise and delight visitors, as it combines great coffee, delicious food, and a genuine commitment to community building.
At Cafe X, inclusivity and accessibility are paramount. Pollard and Ajani firmly believe that vital information and resources should be available to everyone, regardless of background. Their unwavering commitment to fostering generational wealth drives their mission. Through informative workshops, Cafe X empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their financial future. From grasping trusts and wills to seeking guidance from local lawyers, these workshops provide the tools for personal growth. Knowledge and empowerment converge at Cafe X, creating a space where everyone thrives!
So, why not pay a visit to Cafe X and become part of the movement? Discover the flavors, connect with the community, and support a coffee shop that goes beyond serving a great cup of beverage. Cafe X invites you to join them on their inspiring journey towards positive change, one sip at a time.