The International Women's Coffee Alliance (IWCA) recently hosted a delightful cupping session at the 2024 Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Expo, showcasing a diverse array of coffee samples from around the world. This event provided a remarkable opportunity to highlight the craftsmanship of coffee growers and connect them with green buyers and coffee aficionados.

A total of 29 meticulously roasted coffee samples were presented, each representing the unique terroir and dedication of coffee producers. We extend our sincere gratitude to Firedancer Coffee Consultants for their expertise in roasting these samples, drawing out their distinct flavor profiles and characteristics.

The cupping session was more than just a tasting—it was a celebration of the labor and passion that goes into cultivating exceptional coffee. Each cup told a story of the land, climate, and expertise behind it, showcasing the incredible diversity within the coffee industry.

The samples hailed from various farms and cooperatives, including:

• Adomuca (Dominican Republic)

• Beni & Ituri (DR Congo)

• Café don Teofilo (Honduras)

• Coopfam Brasil (Brazil)

• El Zapote (Honduras)

• FE & Gracia (Honduras)

• Finca el Esfuerzo (Honduras)

• Finca Liquidambar (Honduras)

• Flora a Fruito (Colombia)

• IWCA Colombia Blend Quindio IWCA (Colombia)

• Isale Kyavirimu (DR Congo)

• Jaguara Farm (Brazil)

• Kahawa Link Company (Burundi)

• Kalico (Burundi)

• La Union (Colombia)

• Mayoboyo Coffee Farm (Uganda)

• Micosta 2 (Burundi)

• Rover Bird Company (Yemen)

• Ramirez Estate Farm (Dominican Republic)

• San Isidro (Honduras)

• Utake Coffee Limited (Exporter) (Kenya)

• Yali (Mexico)

• Zigoti Coffee Farm (Uganda)

These samples allowed attendees to embark on a journey across continents and cultures, appreciating the distinctive flavors and aromas that each origin has to offer.

The IWCA Cupping Session not only highlighted the excellence of these coffees but also served as a platform to amplify visibility for the dedicated growers behind them. It facilitated connections between producers and potential buyers, fostering relationships that support sustainable and equitable practices within the coffee supply chain.

As we reflect on this enriching experience, we eagerly anticipate future cupping sessions at SCA Expo, including the upcoming event in Houston 2025. We look forward to continuing our mission of celebrating women in coffee, promoting industry diversity, and showcasing the remarkable flavors that emerge from coffee-growing regions worldwide.

A heartfelt thank you to all participants, sponsors, and supporters who made this event a success. Together, we raise our cups to the hardworking women and men who bring exceptional coffee to our tables, one harvest at a time. Here's to the future of coffee and the vibrant community that sustains it. Cheers!