The Global Coffee Alliance for Good (GCAG) is launching with the mission of empowering coffee farmers through education and collaboration.
BY VASILEIA FANARIOTI
SENIOR ONLINE CORRESPONDENT
Photos courtesy of I’M NOT A BARISTA
In a world increasingly defined by connections and community, a transformative initiative is taking shape in the coffee sector with the aim of bridging disparities, supporting underrepresented farmers, and enhancing the experiences of coffee enthusiasts globally.
The Global Coffee Alliance for Good (GCAG), launched by I’M NOT A BARISTA in collaboration with TIMEMORE and Fundación Federico, is poised to redefine engagement within the coffee community. Designed as a pilot program in Colombia, GCAG aspires to deliver essential training, tools, and resources, fostering collaboration to empower small-scale coffee farmers.
In an exclusive interview with the founder, we delve deeper into the motivations and aspirations behind this innovative initiative, raising questions about the future of coffee and the collective responsibility we all share in shaping it.
A Commitment to Empowerment and Education
At the heart of the Global Coffee Alliance for Good lies a strong commitment to education and skill development for small-scale coffee farmers. Under the guidance of Helena Oliviero, a distinguished coffee educator and Italian Cup Tasters World Champion, GCAG will roll out training programs in Colombia focusing on critical areas such as coffee tasting, brewing, and roasting.
Helena’s seasoned experience and dedication to the coffee industry are pivotal in ensuring that farmers are not only equipped with essential techniques but also instilled with confidence in their craft. The importance of skill development cannot be understated in a global marketplace that demands excellence and innovation.
As Micky Wang, founder of I’M NOT A BARISTA, asserts, “Transformative change starts with education. By empowering farmers with knowledge and skills, we are not just improving their livelihoods; we’re also elevating the quality of coffee on a global scale. By investing in comprehensive educational programs, GCAG aims to cultivate pride among farmers and help them refine their products, ultimately leading to better quality coffee in every cup we enjoy.”
Building Global Connections Through Collaboration
One of the standout features of the GCAG initiative is its unwavering focus on collaboration. This isn’t just a charity project. It’s a call to action for coffee enthusiasts, businesses, and professionals worldwide to unite for a greater cause. An example of this collective spirit can be found in Nikos Antzaras, co-owner of Roasting Warehouse in Athens, Greece. Roasting Warehouse is set to host a “Barista Masterclass” workshop on December 5, dedicating all proceeds to benefit GCAG.
Micky Wang emphasizes the importance of collaboration, stating, “Collaboration is not just essential; it’s the lifeblood of what we’re doing. We believe that when coffee lovers and industry professionals unite for a common purpose, we can create lasting change that uplifts the entire community.”
These connections extend beyond fundraising. They foster an exchange of ideas, techniques, and cultural insights among farmers, roasters, and coffee drinkers. GCAG exemplifies this collaborative spirit, inviting coffee lovers from diverse backgrounds to actively participate in projects that resonate with them, thereby transforming interactions into opportunities for growth and shared learning.
Overcoming Challenges and Envisioning a Bright Future
Like any ambitious initiative, GCAG faces its share of challenges. From navigating cultural nuances in Colombia to securing sustainable financial support in a competitive market, the journey is complex. Micky acknowledges these hurdles but emphasizes the significance of community resilience.
“Our strength lies in the community that backs us. We are self-supported through charity products like wristbands and meaningful partnerships. This is about creating a culture of involvement, where consumers don’t just buy coffee but also contribute to something bigger.”
Looking ahead, GCAG envisions expanding its reach beyond Colombia, with plans to launch in Indonesia in 2025. This expansion will enable the initiative to address unique needs in diverse coffee-growing regions globally. Yet, as Micky highlights, “Growth is not merely about geographical expansion; it’s about deepening relationships. Every wristband sold, every story shared, builds a bridge connecting the people behind each cup of coffee.”
How to Participate
This initiative will officially kick off at TIMEMORE’s booth during the Shenzhen Hotelex Expo, taking place December 12-14 in Shenzhen, China. Coffee lovers, professionals, and businesses at the Shenzhen Hotelex Expo will be invited to be part of this exciting journey.
GCAG stands to foster a more connected and empowered coffee community, ensuring that everyone—from the farmers in Colombia to enthusiasts around the world—feels the impact of positive change. Micky invites all to “join the movement, wear the wristband, and actively participate in coffee conversations that contribute to a brighter future for the industry we all cherish.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vasileia Fanarioti (she/her) is a senior online correspondent for Barista Magazine and a freelance copywriter and editor with a primary focus on the coffee niche. She has also been a volunteer copywriter for the I’M NOT A BARISTA NPO, providing content to help educate people about baristas and their work.
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