Cafe’s welcoming and inclusive job ad redefines hiring standards: 'Age? It doesn't define you'

While many companies aim to hire the best candidates, job requirements can sometimes feel unrealistic or even irrelevant. However, a Filipino-inspired bakery and cafe chain is breaking the mold with a refreshingly inclusive and welcoming job ad. The wholesome ad has captured significant attention online. Originally posted by u/exmoose20 on the r/Philippines subreddit and later shared by u/CaravelClerihew, it has been widely appreciated and sparked meaningful discussions.

The ad was put out by a restaurant called Lola Nena's (@lolanenas) in the Philippines and featured a wholesome set of criteria and qualifications for applicants. The restaurant was looking to hire a baker, a cashier, a barista (front-of-house) and kitchen staff. The criteria for these positions were as follows: "Age: It doesn't define you. Education? Passion for food and people is our priority." The employer also highlighted that the establishment would teach any necessary math skills to the candidate while on the job. "Gender? All are welcome," the ad continued. Regarding appearance, the ad emphasized, "Your warmth and authenticity shine the brightest." In terms of communication skills, the restaurant expects employees to demonstrate respect and kindness. "Respect and kindness are our languages," the ad stated.

The only "absolutely essential" quality in the criteria was a "love for people," as the jobs would likely require interaction with customers and coworkers. Anyone wishing to apply was asked to send an email with a specific subject line or reach out to the restaurant via their Indeed or Jobstreet account. Interested applicants could also scan a QR code on the ad to contact the establishment. People in the comments shared their thoughts on the ad, with many expressing hope that it was a genuine thing.

u/vampirerodrigo wrote, "This is actually a response to a Potato Corner (for context, small french fry stalls in malls) ad that required a height limit, a weight limit and straight teeth and the like for women who wanted to sell fries. Just a fun fact." u/what4270 commented, "It's so hilarious. I honestly don't understand what they could gain from that ad. If they managed to hire a beauty queen contestant as their cashier, it still won't change the fact that they are still understaffed." 

u/FreyjadourV remarked, "To give more context, some service jobs can have very specific requirements. Age: many postings have ages under 35 etc. Appearance: It's common to find heights above five feet for women and some height requirements for men. Many service jobs will require women to wear a full face of makeup as well or will actively choose a prettier or more handsome person over another person. Gender: Women only is common for waitresses and masseuses. Education: Most jobs require a bachelor's even if you work at McDonald's they require degrees. Communication: It's very common to look down on someone who doesn't speak fluent English despite English not being the majority's first language. Without context, all of the above points on the image seem silly or 'duh,' but this job post is very progressive in its own way."