Sydneysider with Autism Announces His Chocolate Business amid Lockdown.
While everyone is commiserating their lockdown misery over drinks and food, Richard is getting his chocolate business off the ground, and sales are going through the roof.
Like everyone, Richard’s job is striked by the doom-laden news of lockdown. However, he decided to turn his frown upside down with a chocolaty idea to cheer himself up — embarking on the business My Freckle Shop.
It all started from a humble idea.“We thought we would make up one or two batches and it would keep Richard occupied during the initial lockdown which was supposed to be brief — now he is being asked to quote for bulk orders,” Ms Habelrih said.
With mom’s help in filming the production process, it instantly created a media storm and now, the orders are in full flood.
This decadent treat, namely Freckly Faces is made with chocolate and topped with a hefty dusting of 100s and 1000s.
Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 4, this fellow has overcome numerous hurdles and has constantly defied the odds with his perseverance and assiduous. Now he is a paid public speaker.
“We struggled to have him enrolled into a mainstream school, yet he graduated from year 12. Richard also paved his career pathway as he realizes the traditional way does not fit him.
As NSW stares down the barrel of an extended lockdown, Richard is not taking a break and is planning to continue after lockdown.
So far, the mother-son duo has sold 900 Freckly Faces and plenty more to come. They claim that the sales are going so out of hand that there is a dire need for an online order system.
Mom Ms Habelrih is thankful to everyone who has supported Richard’s business and their TikTok page @autsimmates, named after the organization mom founded in the quest for a more inclusive and welcoming society for people on the autism spectrum.
As drool-worthy as these Freckly Faces look, Richard’s friendly and modest personality is what keeps people flocking in, (oh and of course, for the sweet treats).
“Look how many there are, the boxes are taller than me,” he tells the camera with a big smile and overflowing with pride.
“I was very happy that people liked my Freckly Faces and wanted to order some; it made my heart sing,” he added.
Check our Richard’s TikTok page @autsimmates
Richard’s Freckly Faces comes in $10 for 3 small or $10 for 2 giant. Make your orders here.
