IWCA News & Updates

IWCA News & Updates

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

Rooted in Resilience: How the Grafting Competition in Guatemala is Cultivating Climate-Smart Coffee—and Empowering Women
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Rooted in Resilience: How the Grafting Competition in Guatemala is Cultivating Climate-Smart Coffee—and Empowering Women

The National Grafting Competition in Guatemala is helping women coffee producers build resilience in the face of climate change. Thanks to support from Caribou Coffee’s Amy’s Blend, IWCA Guatemala expanded this empowering program—offering technical training, celebrating local expertise, and amplifying women’s leadership in coffee. Read how this unique initiative is growing more than just coffee.

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Empowering Women in Coffee: How Amy’s Blend Supports IWCA Chapters Worldwide
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Empowering Women in Coffee: How Amy’s Blend Supports IWCA Chapters Worldwide

Honoring Women in Coffee: Caribou Coffee & IWCA Partner for Impact

Amy’s Blend is more than just coffee—it’s a legacy. In honor of Caribou Coffee’s original roastmaster, Amy Erickson, this special blend supports women in coffee-growing communities. From March 6 – June 4, 2025, Caribou Coffee will donate $1 per bag sold (up to $50,000) to the International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA), with funds directly benefiting women in Guatemala, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, and Kenya. Learn how this collaboration is making a difference and empowering women across the coffee value chain.

Read the full story and see how your purchase supports women in coffee.

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Empowering Women in Coffee at AFCA 2025
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Empowering Women in Coffee at AFCA 2025

Empowering Women in Coffee at AFCA 2025

The International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA) was honored to participate in the AFCA 2025 Conference in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where we connected with industry leaders, shared stories of resilience, and advanced conversations on gender equity in coffee. From engaging discussions at our IWCA booth to a powerful Breakfast Fundraiser, the event reinforced the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful change.

Read more about the inspiring moments, key takeaways, and how your support continues to fuel opportunities for women across the global coffee supply chain.

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Data, Dialogue, and a Turning Point at HORECA 2025
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Data, Dialogue, and a Turning Point at HORECA 2025

At HORECA 2025, IWCA Greece presented the first-ever research on the role of women in Greece’s coffee sector. Developed by ierax analytix and followed by a panel discussion, the findings sparked meaningful dialogue about representation, challenges, and the steps needed to create a more inclusive coffee industry.

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Florence Encounter Recap: A Landmark Gathering for IWCA Consuming Country Chapters
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Florence Encounter Recap: A Landmark Gathering for IWCA Consuming Country Chapters

In January 2025, IWCA chapters from across the world gathered in Florence, Italy, for a transformative two-day event focused on collaboration, leadership, and strengthening women's roles in the coffee industry. Hosted at the Accademia del Caffè Espresso, the encounter featured thought-provoking discussions, chapter presentations, and hands-on workshops, fostering meaningful connections and actionable strategies for the future. This milestone event set the foundation for continued growth and global impact.

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A Journey Through Guatemala’s Coffee Heritage: IWCA Board Tour Recap
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

A Journey Through Guatemala’s Coffee Heritage: IWCA Board Tour Recap

IWCA Board Meeting in Guatemala: Strengthening Our Global Vision

The IWCA Board gathered in Guatemala for a pivotal meeting focused on strategic growth, collaboration, and impact across our global network. From advancing fundraising initiatives to strengthening chapter support, this meeting reinforced our commitment to empowering women in coffee.

Read more about the key takeaways and how IWCA is shaping the future of the industry.

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Books for Highland Children Whose Parents Grow Coffee
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Books for Highland Children Whose Parents Grow Coffee

IWCA Vietnam joined FAI's "Warm Smile" program at Po Mau school in Son La, bringing books to Hmong students whose families grow coffee—demonstrating how women in coffee leadership extends beyond the farm to community development.

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Welcoming New Board Members
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Welcoming New Board Members

The International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA) proudly welcomes four dynamic leaders to our Board of Directors! Their expertise in coffee marketing, sustainability, nonprofit leadership, and global advocacy will strengthen our mission to empower women across the coffee industry.

Meet Our New Board Members:

  • Anke Erichsen – Coffee marketing and branding expert, specializing in specialty coffee and sustainability.

  • Mbula Musau – Founder of Utake Coffee Limited, Q Instructor, and advocate for gender equity and youth empowerment in Africa.

  • Noelia Villalobos – Executive Director of SCACR and Sintercafé, fostering industry collaboration and growth.

  • Laura Brown – COO of Andean Health & Development, bringing expertise in nonprofit leadership and capacity-building.

With their leadership, IWCA will continue to expand education, market access, and collaboration opportunities for women in coffee worldwide.

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IWCA Australia Welcomes 2024 Board of Directors
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

IWCA Australia Welcomes 2024 Board of Directors

IWCA Australia welcomes its 2024 Board of Directors, bringing fresh leadership and vision to empower women in coffee across the region. Stay tuned for updates as the chapter embarks on a new year of impactful initiatives.

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When Leadership Tastes Like Home
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

When Leadership Tastes Like Home

IWCA's DR Congo chapter celebrated leadership author Ghislaine Kahambu Kambesa with a tasting of locally produced coffee and cacao made by women. Discover how women coffee leaders are building unity through empowerment, community, and the flavors of home.

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Celebrating 16 Years of Progress: 2024 Coffee Festival in Cameroon Highlights Sector Revival and Community Spirit
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Celebrating 16 Years of Progress: 2024 Coffee Festival in Cameroon Highlights Sector Revival and Community Spirit

Celebrating 16 Years of the Coffee Festival in Cameroon
In November 2024, IWCA participated in the 16th edition of the Coffee Festival in Koutaba, Cameroon, organized by COOPAGRO and the Syndicat des Communes du Noun. The event brought together producers, partners, and policymakers to reflect on the progress of Cameroon’s coffee sector, showcase women's leadership, and promote sustainable, community-driven growth across the value chain.

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Recap: IWCA South Korea Chapter at the IWCA International Summit – Seoul Cafe Show 2024
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson

Recap: IWCA South Korea Chapter at the IWCA International Summit – Seoul Cafe Show 2024

The IWCA South Korea Chapter hosted an inspiring IWCA International Summit during the Seoul Cafe Show, bringing together global chapter members, industry leaders, and coffee enthusiasts for an afternoon of connection, learning, and collaboration. From thought-provoking guest presentations to an exclusive IWCA cupping session featuring coffees from Brazil, Ethiopia, Burundi, Honduras, and Kenya, this event showcased the power of women in coffee. Read more about the highlights and key takeaways from this incredible gathering!

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