Alvaro’s Journey with Coffee Maná
Nestled in the scenic town of Apaneca, El Salvador, Coffee Maná is more than just a coffee shop. Managed by Alvaro, his sister, and their father, this family business embodies the transformative power of education and a deep passion for coffee.
Humble Beginnings and Growing Demand
In 2018, Alvaro and his family started their journey in the coffee business by selling ground coffee to restaurants and cafes, spanning from Nahuizalco to Ataco. Recognizing a growing demand for a local coffee experience, they decided to bring their product closer to home. On weekends, they set up a cart in the central park of Apaneca, serving fresh coffee to locals and tourists.
It wasn’t long before they realized that people wanted more than just to take a bag of coffee home—they wanted to savor a cup right there in the park. This insight led them to take a bold step: opening a permanent café.
With determination and hard work, they established Coffee Maná, which quickly became a beloved spot in Apaneca. The café’s warm atmosphere and quality coffee drew in a loyal customer base, eager to enjoy their local brew.
Seizing Educational Opportunities with RENACER
In December 2020, a chance encounter changed the course of Alvaro’s coffee journey. While walking through the charming streets of Apaneca, he met a friend who worked as a technician at RENACER. This encounter introduced Alvaro to the Coffee Farm Administrators program at RENACER, opening up new avenues for learning about the art and science of coffee.
Excited about the opportunity, Alvaro and his sister enrolled in RENACER’s barista course. “We were thrilled,” Alvaro recalls. “We could finally learn different methods of preparing coffee, beyond the traditional ways we knew.”
Their thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there. After completing the barista course, they pursued further education in coffee cupping and management through additional courses at RENACER. For Alvaro, these experiences were invaluable. "A friend once told me, 'A good barista isn't just someone who prepares coffee; a good barista knows where the coffee comes from.' This resonated with me deeply," he says.
Transforming Coffee Maná Through Knowledge
With the skills and knowledge gained from RENACER, Alvaro and his family transformed Coffee Maná. They now have a profound understanding of the coffee-making process, from cultivation to cup. They can identify and appreciate different coffee notes and varieties, and they have committed to growing their coffee in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Initially, their knowledge about their coffee’s origins was limited. Now, they not only understand where their coffee comes from but also actively support local coffee producers. This commitment has strengthened their connection to the community and enhanced the quality and sustainability of their coffee.
Reflecting on this journey, Alvaro says, “Our experience with RENACER has been a turning point. Before, we knew very little. Now, we’ve learned so much, and it’s helped Coffee Maná grow and improve.” The friendships and connections they’ve built through these courses have become an integral part of the Coffee Maná family.
Looking Forward
Alvaro’s journey is far from over. He continues to seek opportunities to learn and grow, with a vision of making Coffee Maná a symbol of quality and community spirit in Apaneca. By sharing their passion for coffee and their commitment to sustainable practices, Alvaro and his family are paving the way for a brighter future for their business and their community.
Through dedication and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, Alvaro and his family have turned Coffee Maná into a thriving enterprise that not only serves great coffee but also supports local producers and promotes sustainability. Their story is a testament to the value of knowledge and its power to transform lives and communities.
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