CAFEX 2024: Spotlight on IWCA Guatemala's Role in Shaping the Future of Coffee

This year’s transformation of the traditional Coffee Growing Congress into CAFEX by the National Coffee Association in Guatemala (Anacafé) represents a significant evolution in promoting gender equity and inclusivity within the coffee industry. Held on August 8th and 9th, CAFEX was not only a gathering for updates and learning but also a testament to Anacafé's commitment to empowering women in coffee, underscored by the active involvement of the International Women’s Coffee Alliance Guatemala Chapter - IWCA Guatemala.

Empowering Women in Coffee

The theme of CAFEX, “We innovate, evolve, and transform the future of Guatemalan coffee,” resonates deeply with the IWCA Guatemala Chapter’s mission. This edition of the congress provided a unique platform for women in the coffee sector to connect, share experiences, and showcase their contributions to the industry. With the presence of influential figures like Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo and leaders from Anacafé, the event highlighted the importance of integrating women’s perspectives in coffee production discussions.

IWCA Guatemala's Active Participation

IWCA Guatemala played a crucial role at CAFEX, facilitating workshops and sessions focused on innovative agricultural practices and business strategies tailored for women. The chapter’s involvement exemplified how vital women are to the sustainability and growth of the coffee sector, not just in Guatemala but globally. Their are connected in a network of more than 16,000 IWCA Global members where they share the challenges, enhancing productivity, and navigating market dynamics, all through the lens of female empowerment and leadership.

Showcasing Skills and Building Networks

One of the highlights of CAFEX was participating in the National Barista Championship, where IWCA Guatemala showcased the talents of the national barista 2023 Jose Miguel Echeverria, affectionately known as Teco Echeverria. This event combined the participation of the national Barista with the promotion of coffees grown by women producers who are members of IWCA Guatemala.

A Catalyst for Change

CAFEX, through the engagement of IWCA Guatemala, served as a broader discussion on gender equity in agriculture. It provided a valuable opportunity for women to gain visibility, advocate for equitable practices, and engage with international coffee communities. The congress not only celebrated the cultural heritage of Guatemalan coffee but also embraced the transformative role women play in its ongoing evolution.

Looking Ahead

The successful involvement of IWCA Guatemala at CAFEX sets a promising precedent for future congresses and similar events worldwide. It highlights the potential of women-led initiatives to drive substantial impact within the coffee industry, advocating for a more inclusive and sustainable future. As CAFEX continues to grow, the continued partnership with organizations like IWCA Guatemala will be pivotal in shaping a coffee industry that values innovation, equity, and community development.

You can view the presentations and videos from the event on the CAFEX website.