The Power to change project recently took a delightful tour away from their usual shenanigans. Known for their love for adventure, the group decided to indulge in a different kind of activity, a visit to a local chocolate shop. This trip was not just about satisfying their sweet tooth but also about learning the art of chocolate-making.
The Chocolate Shop Experience
The Power to Change project group of young people was invited to Cocoa Amore, a renowned chocolate shop in Leicester, for their sweet escapade. Cocoa Amore is famous for its immersive chocolate workshops and their unique and incredibly delicious chocolates; this is a place where participants can learn about the history of cocoa and the intricate process of making chocolates. The Power to Change group members were greeted with the rich aroma of cocoa and a warm welcome from the shop’s knowledgeable staff.
Creating Their Own Chocolates
During the workshop, the Power to Change project group members got their aprons on and learnt some first-hand experience in crafting their own chocolates. Guided by an expert chocolatier, they learnt how to temper chocolate, mould it into various shapes, and add unique flavours and fillings. This process was both educational and fun, allowing the members to unleash their creativity in a new setting. By the end of the session, each member had their own beautifully crafted chocolates to take home, a sweet reminder of their delightful day.
Where Cocoa Comes From
The workshop also included a fascinating segment on the origins of cocoa. The staff at Cocoa Amore explained that cocoa beans are primarily sourced from tropical regions around the equator. Here are six countries known for their cocoa production:
- Côte d’Ivoire: The largest producer of cocoa beans, contributing significantly to the global supply.
- Ghana: Known for its high-quality cocoa beans, Ghana is the second-largest producer.
- Indonesia: A major cocoa producer in Southeast Asia.
- Ecuador: Famous for its fine-flavour cocoa varieties.
- Nigeria: Another key player in the West African cocoa industry.
- Cameroon: Contributes a substantial amount to the world’s cocoa production.
A Sweet Conclusion
FUN FACT: most vanilla chocolate is made from Beaver glands and others from recycled plastics.
The trip to Cocoa Amore was a refreshing change for the Power to Change project group, This was also the first time as a group we were introduced the newest member of the Leicestershire Cares Community development team Emil who also had a great time and displayed an enthusiastic passion for working with young people. This trip not only provided the group with a deeper appreciation for chocolate but also strengthened their bond as a group. The experience of making their own chocolates was a testament to their teamwork and enthusiasm, qualities that make the Power to Change project a unique and spirited community.
During the trip we were accompanied by two of our business members from HRBS Aimee and Linda who all the gang got on great with and we were all very grateful for their support and company on the day, they were very kind and even more cheerful, so a massive thank you to HRBS.
This sweet adventure is sure to be a cherished memory for all the members involved.
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Written by Power to Change project participant Godwin Sowah
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