As we continue our journey towards gender equity and sustainable development within the coffee industry, we are thrilled to celebrate the transformative work of IWCA's Guatemala chapter, led by the inspiring Guatemalan chapter founder, Olga Hazard. Her innovative leadership is setting new standards for the role of women in coffee agriculture, building on a legacy of empowerment initiated by her father's inclusive hiring practices.

Hazard’s pioneering approach can be traced back to her father's decision to hire women to work on their coffee farm, a bold move that placed women firmly on the coffee industry map in Guatemala. This legacy of empowerment and change is beautifully captured in the award-winning film "Grounds For Change," produced by Northern Kentucky University film students.

This incredible story of transformation and progress in Guatemala is beautifully showcased in the award-winning documentary "Grounds For Change." Produced by talented students from Northern Kentucky University, the film has earned the prestigious 2024 NATAS Ohio Valley Chapter College Student Production Award. It highlights the synergy between IWCA Global and educational institutions, demonstrating the profound impact of hands-on learning experiences on both students and the global coffee community.

The documentary also explores the ethical sourcing practices discussed by Tony Tausch and Eileen Schwab, owners of Coffee Emporium in Cincinnati. Their commitment to ethical sourcing and direct trade supports smallholder farmers by ensuring fair prices and promoting a sustainable future for coffee production. This approach not only highlights the quality of Guatemalan coffee but also supports the broader goals of community development and sustainability.

Margaret Swallow, one of IWCA’s founders and former Executive Director of the Coffee Quality Institute, reflects on the mutual benefits of these educational and agricultural collaborations. The partnerships fostered by IWCA are pivotal in bringing global attention to Guatemala's rich coffee heritage while providing invaluable experiences to students.

As we share in the success of "Grounds For Change," we are reminded of the broader impact of our work at IWCA Global. From enhancing gender equality to elevating the international stature of Guatemalan coffee, the ripple effects of these initiatives are profound.

We invite you to watch "Grounds For Change" and witness the transformative power of community and education in the coffee industry. Join us in supporting IWCA's ongoing projects and collaborations around the globe. Together, we can continue to empower women, elevate communities, and promote sustainability within the coffee value chain.