STiR coffee and tea magazine

38 STiR coffee and tea | 2025 Issue 1 Spring (Mar/Apr/May) Another standout achievement was the Coun- cil's first stand-alone event in Norfolk, Virginia, which included a tour of the Port of Virginia and RPM Ware- house. This immersive experience offered participants unparalleled networking opportunities and insights into supply chain operations. Collaboration with Sin- tercafe's Next Generation group at the Specialty Cof- fee Association (SCA) event in Chicago further so- lidified the Council's reputation as a vital network for emerging professionals. Voices of Inspiration: Present and Future For Nora Johnson, vice chair of the council and direc- tor of commodities at Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA, the Council's value extends beyond professional growth. "The NCA Next Gen events provide intimate opportu- nities for conversation and education," she shares. "In an industry with so many interconnected facets, these events open your mind to more opportunities and a deeper un- derstanding of the coffee supply chain." Kyle Bawot, chair of the council and senior director of coffee at OFI, underscores the Council's role as an entry point for newcomers. "The NCA Next Gen, with its welcoming spirit, provides openings— easy entry points—for new coffee professionals to re- ally crack into the industry," he says. Looking forward, both leaders are optimistic about the Council's evolving scope. "We are always exploring new ways to serve our membership," Ba- wot notes. "Leadership within the council offers the unique chance to shape its future." The NCA's Role in the Global Coffee Industry Globally, coffee is much more than a beverage—it is a cultural touchstone and economic lifeline for millions, and it is in a constant state of flux. NCA is pivotal in connecting U.S. stakeholders to this international ecosystem. Through partnerships with global organi- zations, it addresses challenges such as climate change, which threatens coffee-growing regions, and econom- ic inequities that impact smallholder farmers. It's also a forum for big business to be done. NCA's events serve as hubs for innovation and collaboration. Attendees gain insights into emerging trends, such as the growing demand for sustainability certifications and advancements in coffee technology. NCA also amplifies the voices of small and medium- sized enterprises, advocating for fair trade policies and equitable supply chains, and offers key resources to coffee businesses, such as its FSVP (Foreign Sup- plier Verification Program) Compliance Guide, SOE (Strengthening Organic Enforcement) Guide, and Ochratoxin guidance. A Volunteer-Driven Mission The Next Gen Council exemplifies NCA's commit- ment to collaboration and community. Remarkably, the Council operates entirely through the dedication of its volunteers. "We have a lot of initiatives running concurrently, which take a great deal of time and effort to execute," Ba- wot explains. "The atmosphere within the NCA Next Gen is one of com- mitment and collaboration, where everyone not only does their part but often goes above and beyond." For many, the council's impact transcends professional networking. "So many of the individuals I've met through the NCA Next Gen have come to be genuine friends," Johnson adds. "It's truly a dream to collabo- rate with friends who inspire you to be better." A Vision for the Future As the Next Gen Council looks toward 2025, its agenda reflects both am- bition and adaptability. Plans include expanding the mentorship program, addressing key challenges like the EU deforestation regulation (EUDR), and organizing events at major industry conventions. By equipping its members with leadership skills and professional development opportuni- ties, the Council ensures its continued impact on the coffee industry. With a robust foundation and ambitious plans, the NCA Next Gen- eration Council is poised to shape the future of coffee. Those interested in staying updated or becoming involved should follow their journey on LinkedIn at NCA Next Gen. Through their efforts, the council exemplifies NCA's enduring commitment to innovation, collaboration, and leadership in an ever- evolving industry. Next Gen session offers participants unparalleled networking opportuni- ties and insights into supply chain operations. For many, the council's impact transcends professional networking, and life long friendships are made that foster continued collaboration.

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