SHENZHEN, China —I’m Not A Barista announces the launch of the Global Coffee Alliance for Good (GCAG), an extension of the Charity Coffee Wristband Program, which unites coffee lovers worldwide to support farmers and baristas in need. Launching in partnership with TIMEMORE, and Fundación Federico, GCAG’s pilot program in Colombia will provide essential coffee training, resources, and community collaboration to empower small-scale coffee farmers. This initiative will officially kick off at TIMEMORE’s booth during Shenzhen Hotelex, December 12-14, where all coffee enthusiasts are invited to celebrate this new charity milestone.
“GCAG is more than just a charity project” says Micky, Founder of I’M NOT A BARISTA. It’s a global community where every coffee drinker, barista, and farmer can feel connected, valued, and empowered to make a difference. You don’t have to be wealthy or powerful to make an impact. Every wristband, every story, and every coffee conversation builds a bridge connecting the people behind every cup.”
Since November 2022, I’M NOT A BARISTA and their charity partners has raised over $8,000 for coffee workers globally, including in Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico, and China, providing critical resources for baristas, small farmers, and coffee-related community projects. Each wristband purchased supports IMNAB’s mission to bring real impact to coffee communities.
Empowering Education with a Volunteer Spirit
Helena Oliviero, a respected coffee educator and former Cup Tasters World Champion from Italy, has volunteered her time and expertise as GCAG’s Head Educator. With years of experience and a deep commitment to the coffee industry, Helena will lead training programs in Colombia, focusing on Coffee Tasting, Brewing, and Coffee Roasting skills. Her contributions underscore GCAG’s dedication to building valuable skills and confidence among small farmers, supporting them in reaching their fullest potential.
A Collaborative Effort in Colombia
Key to the success of GCAG’s pilot program is local partnership. Fundación Federico, led by Maria Lucia, serves as a local partner in Colombia, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to the cause. Maria and her team will assist in organizing locations, coordinating with farmers, and providing on-the-ground support to ensure the program runs smoothly and is tailored to the community’s needs.
The First Step of Many: Global Collaboration for a Greater Cause
GCAG is an open and inclusive charity initiative, welcoming individuals and ethical businesses to contribute. For example, Nikos Antzaras, co-owner of Roasting Warehouse Athens in Greece, has already pledged his support by organizing a special workshop titled “Barista Masterclass.” This event, set for December 5th at 17:00 PM in Athens, will take place at Roasting Warehouse. During the masterclass, Nikos will delve into specialty coffee, processing and fermentation techniques, barista skills, and essential tools. All proceeds from the workshop will directly benefit GCAG’s mission in Colombia, showcasing the growing global support GCAG is garnering and the diverse forms of collaborative efforts it inspires.
The Shenzhen Hotelex Expo, taking place from December 12-14, will mark the official launch of GCAG at TIMEMORE’s booth. We invite coffee professionals, enthusiasts, and businesses to visit us, meet notable names like Charity Cheung, Kwok Sze Ki, and Alvin Cheng, and learn more about this impactful initiative. Our dedicated volunteers from China will also be on hand to assist at the booth, ensuring a welcoming and engaging experience. Join us to support our mission of building a more connected, community-centered coffee industry.
About GCAG and the Charity Coffee Wristband Program
As an extension of the Charity Coffee Wristband Program, GCAG is a new way for coffee drinkers, professionals, and communities to engage in direct, impactful giving. It follows I’M NOT A BARISTA’s vision to “make coffee connect the world” and mission to “help coffee people reach their fullest potential.” Through this initiative, we aim to foster sustainable support, allowing everyone involved—from designers and wristband buyers to partners and farmers—to play a meaningful and engaging role in the coffee community.
About I’M NOT A BARISTA
I’M NOT A BARISTA is a nonprofit organization founded in 2020 to connect the coffee community, providing meaningful support to those within it. Through initiatives like the Charity Coffee Wristband Program, the organization is committed to empowering coffee professionals, uplifting underserved communities, and creating positive change within the industry.
