IWCA International Convention

III International Convention of the International Women in Coffee Alliance 2013

The III International Convention of the International Women in Coffee Alliance (IWCA) was held in Guatemala City from February 7th to February 9th, 2013. This event was organized by the Association of Women in Coffee, Guatemala. The theme of the convention was Coffee and Trade. In addition to presenting a wide range of interesting lectures by coffee business owners as well as coffee related topics, participants were offered an opportunity to exchange ideas and thoughts directly with potential buyers.

The event was held in the ANACAFE building (Guatemalan National Coffee Association) and drew more than 262 participants. The participants came from around the world and represented producers, exporters, buyers, experts, and finance professionals. The keynote presentation was given by Ms. Patricia Francis, Executive Director of the International Trade Center of the United Nations who developed the theme “Challenges to achieve integrated sustainability in the world today.” 

The event also included:

Expo-Sale of Artwork "Coffee and Women" - More than 60 leading Guatemalan artists submitted artwork that focused on the activities of women and their relationship to coffee production. 25% of the proceeds were donated to a pilot literacy project for women in rural areas, proposed b the Women in Coffee Association, Guatemala, and supported by the National Literacy Commission, CONALFA. 

Educational Farm Tours - Participants were given the opportunity to tour several coffee plantations. The Antigua Classic Tour toured the Entre Volcanes y El Tempixque and the Private Nature Reserves toured the Bohemia and Los Andes.

Cupping Tables - Cupping stations were divided and tasted by country and región. The cupping experience was divided into five sessions and was attended by 16 national and international cuppers.

      

  

 

Video highlights from the conference: