Disabled people work using robots - 1st September 2021

A Tokyo cafe is using robot servers. But this isn't just a new fun place to go.

Dawn Cafe employs people with disabilities who can't leave home. They control the robots from home. These robots are called OriHime.

The workers have different abilities. Some control the robots by moving their eyes on a computer screen. This system lets workers at home chat with the customers.

Kentaro Yoshifuji is co-founder of the robotics company, Ory Laboratory. He started Dawn Cafe and thinks this communication is necessary for the business.

Kentaro Yoshifuji: "Customers here are not exactly coming to this location just to meet OriHime. They come here because of the people behind OriHime, and they will come back to see them again."

The cafe was opened at the same time the Paralympics were happening in Tokyo and at the start of the WeThe15 campaign. This campaign tries to stop inequality for the15 percent of disabled people globally.

Michio Imai operates one of the robots and enjoys his job.

Michio Imai: "As long as I'm alive, I want to give something back to the community by working."

Customers can speak with the small robots on their tables and learn more about the people operating them.

Customer Mamoru Fukaya tells us more.

Mamoru Fukaya:"The pilot was very friendly. Since he said he can't work outside his home, it's very good for such a person to have this kind of chance."

While the bigger robots serve customers, the smaller robots provide conversation. Some may think the robot cafe is just a trend but it is a life saver for Imai.

Michio Imai: "I feel happy if I can be a part of society."