Brewing for Equity Fellowship: Journey, Learning, and Impact
This edition celebrates the incredible journey of our Brewing for Equity Fellows, from virtual learning sessions with industry leaders to our planned delegation to Ethiopia.
Here's what we've been brewing.
CCRE Fellows heads to the 22nd Annual African Fine Coffees Conference
Journey to the Birthplace of Coffee.
Gaining a better understanding of coffee comes at its place of origin. It’s difficult for new coffee entrepreneurs to have the resources to experience coffee at its origin, understanding the people and culture, production and trade, yet one of the most valuable experiences. We are so excited to continue helping bridge the knowledge and skills gap by providing opportunities for diverse coffee leaders to join the 22nd African Fine Coffees Conference and Exhibition in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, February 2-6, 2026. This year’s conference theme is Brewing Africa’s Next Generation. Following the conference, the delegation will spend time in Addis learning about the industry and travel to meet with coffee producers in the Sidama region.
12 individuals, including the Brewing for Equity Fellows along with CCRE founder, board members and volunteers will be attending the conference. Many of the delegates will experience their first chance to learn about the coffee trade and production in Africa and what better place than in the birthplace of coffee, Ethiopia.
The Brewing for Equity Fellows will participate in a panel discussion at the conference titled "Understanding the Next Generation of Coffee Leaders." CCRE views inclusion as essential to building a sustainable coffee industry. It’s important to gain perspective from diverse voices and leaders in the industry, including the next generation of coffee. We are excited to further our relationship with the African Fine Coffees Association.
Over the coming months, we’ll share experiences and perspectives gained during this monumental Journey to the Birthplace of Coffee.
Learning from Leaders: Virtual Webinar Series
Over the past several months, the Brewing for Equity Fellows met virtually to expand their knowledge and learn from others. We’d like to thank our guest speakers and facilitator and the support of the CCRE team in hosting our webinars, which will continue throughout the duration of the program.
Cheryl Hung, Vice President at Dig Insights, shared the value of coffee research and its impact on decision-making and growth opportunities.
Kym Lew Nelson, Negotiations Professor at Harvard Business School / Guest Professor at Howard University, led a discussion on cultural negotiation.
Dr. Niechelle Guidry, Black Girl Black Coffee, Fellowship webinar facilitator
In Their Words: Dr. Tiffany Johnson James
“The BFE Fellowship included a session where the fellows were invited to coach one another. The timing and energy of the session set the tone for us to feel courageous enough to be open and vulnerable about our visions and dreams. That - sharing one’s vision and dreams in community- can sometimes feel challenging. But not in this session. I left that session feeling clearer and encouraged about my work in coffee. I also felt inspired by everyone’s vision for the coffee industry and the work they are doing. I’m very grateful for the fellowship, the fellows, and that session. Looking forward to continuing the dreaming and the doing towards a more equitable industry.”
Join Volunteers In Building Coffee Equity
Volunteers are vital for the work of nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits do the difficult work that’s often overlooked at the front end of driving the necessary societal changes. Those who give their time and efforts to a nonprofit with aligned values are a force of positive change.
We’re pleased that over 100 individuals have shared their time and talents with us. As we continue to build stronger programs and prepare for our presence at World of Coffee 2026 in San Diego, we need your help.
We want to add value and give back to our volunteers in a way that helps them to grow. You will be invited to engage with us based on your strengths and interests. If you’re passionate about events, communications, fundraising, research, or education, there’s a place for you. Tell us more about your interests in coffee.
