A glimpse into the Young Entrepreneurs of San Miguel Escobar | Q&A with Alfonso

How did you start working in coffee growing? 

I have been interested in working in coffee since I was a child. I grew up in the fields. I remember after getting out of school I would go with my dad for the harvest…When the cooperative started [many] years ago, I became really interested in the process all the way to drinking coffee and learning about roasting. I now know the whole process from selection to how to roast and now I’m currently a barista practicing different brew methods. Coffee is more than just an income, I do this because I have a passion for it. 

As the leader of the Young Entrepreneurs of San Miguel Escobar, what is something you’d like for people to know about you all as a group. 

As the younger generation, we are the future of coffee. If there is not a generation to follow, who will produce coffee? This applies to our community and the entire region. We have the opportunity to have other jobs but we can also do this, and that’s what I do. I have my barista job, but I also produce coffee. The goal is that rising generation of coffee farmers can work the fields *and* prepare a high quality cup of coffee. 

What are some of your goals?

My personal goal is to be a certified professional barista. I still have a long journey ahead, but I know that I will be able to achieve this. Then, I want to have my own coffee shop. Even if it’s small at the beginning–it will be something that will grow with time. 

As for the collective goal, my hope is that each young person has a good quantity of land so that they can produce more coffee and that upon producing, they have avenues to commercialize that coffee. That is why our connection with [De La Gente] is so important. They take our voices farther so that more people know about us. 

Do you have any words or comments for those who buy coffee from the Young Entrepreneurs of San Miguel Escobar?

This profession is more than just selling a product, it’s also about creating a future for our families and rising generations. For every bag of coffee you buy from the Young Entrepreneurs of San Miguel Escobar, you’re generating opportunities for the members. The profits don’t just go towards our homes and to put food on the table, but also supports a whole group of young people in their studies and careers.

I have talked to the cooperative members who have received loans and they’re motivated to work and pay back what they owe. It’s a great opportunity for growth for each person individually, but for us as a group. 

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