Ukrainian refugee sets up Glasgow cafe that's first of its kind in Scotland

A Ukrainian refugee has set up a new cafe, which is the first of its kind in Scotland, after fleeing war to find safety in Glasgow.

Zaid Alqassab has opened a Sumerian cafe selling unique teas and coffees, which he believes could be the only one in the nation.

The young entrepreneur, who is a qualified civil engineer, struggled to get a job in his profession on arrival from Kyiv and decided he no longer wanted to accept benefits. Going back to study, he embarked on a course to learn about hospitality.

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And his determination has paid off with Gudea Coffee House, at Charring Cross, opening in October.

Zaid said he was "very sad to leave" Kyiv in 2022 and opted to come to Glasgow as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme as he described Scotland as a "nice country with friendly people".

The 32-year-old said: "As an engineer I couldn't find a job to match my qualification and I didn't want to continue on benefits. I did a course at Hub International UK and learned aout making coffees and hospitality. That is why I decided to open this business. I came to this country and it provided me with a safe haven. I didn't want to sit and do nothing and wanted to adapt to this society. I am very grateful to this country that has provided me with this opportunity."

As Zaid is half Iraqi, he decided to pay tribute to his culture by theming the cafe around the ancient Sumerian civilisation - which existed in present day Iraq.

Drinks on offer at the venue at 121 St George's Road include the unique Chai Noomi, Sumerian Chai, Saffron Chai as well as Turkish coffee, Italian coffee and sweet treats.

Zaid said: "We make drinks that are perhaps not made anywhere else in the country. It is going well. We have been getting five star reviews. I wanted to create awareness of my culture and the Sumerian civilisation."

Faten Hameed, of the Scottish Iraqi Association, said: "We get myths about ethnic minorities being here to get our jobs and benefits. Here you see an educated person who couldn't continue on benefits. Zaid worked hard and got training in hospitality to come off benefits. He is an addition to society and is grateful to this country for providing a safe haven."

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