Brewing Equality: Honouring Women in Coffee

International Women’s Day (IWD) offers an opportunity to reflect on the transformative contributions of women across industries. In the coffee industry, women play a pivotal role at every stage – working as growers, harvesters, and processors in farming, and leading as cooperative changemakers, sustainability advocates, and business owners to drive innovation and industry growth. Despite challenges, their determination and ingenuity have shaped the industry. This IWD, we shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes, celebrating their efforts and impact.

Women in Southeast Asia’s Coffee Industry

Women perform up to 80% of coffee farm labour in regions like Northern Sumatra. However, they face significant barriers, including limited access to land, credit, and training. These systemic obstacles hinder their ability to fully benefit from their labour and skillset.

Despite these challenges, there are plenty of inspiring success stories. In Indonesia, Ari Awas Awali and Vietnam’s K’Ho cooperatives empower women by promoting decision-making and fostering community development. In the Philippines, Progress Multi-Purpose Cooperative has made strides in advancing gender equality and innovation. Meanwhile, in Vietnam, women-led businesses account for 50% of the domestic coffee trade, showcasing their entrepreneurial drive and leadership.

Empowering Women in Coffee Globally

Globally, women in coffee face systemic biases, including income inequality, career stagnation, and exclusion from financial decision-making. Despite their indispensable contributions across farming, production, and governance, they often do not receive the recognition they deserve.

Efforts to address these challenges are making a difference. Programmes in Singapore and other regions are equipping marginalised women with skills and opportunities to thrive in the coffee industry. For example, Bettr Barista, a coffee academy and roastery that trains and employs marginalised women, was awarded Social Enterprise of the Year at the 2017 President's Challenge Social Enterprise Award. Women’s leadership in sustainable practices not only enhances coffee quality but also benefits communities and the environment, demonstrating how empowerment drives progress.

Women Shaping the Future of Coffee in Singapore

In Singapore, women are breaking barriers and redefining the specialty coffee scene. Figures like baristas Regina Tay and Andrea Tan have not only earned international recognition for their craft but have also become pioneers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Regina Tay, a veteran with over a decade of experience, discovered her passion for coffee while working as a barista in Melbourne. Now progressing beyond the coffee bar, Regina is a recognised coffee roaster and authority in the coffee community. Regina’s involvement in the industry spans teaching, mentoring, and championing for women in executive positions, ensuring that women are valued in all aspects of the coffee business.

Andrea Tan, the winner of the 2015 Singapore National Brewers Cup, had her breakthrough when she became the first female competitor in the competition. Her victory led to a flourishing career, and she now leads workshops to teach the next generation of coffee professionals. Andrea’s achievements showcase the importance of perseverance in the face of gender-based challenges.

Both Regina and Andrea have faced sexism and microaggressions along the way, but their resilience has helped them thrive. Their stories inspire the next generation of coffee professionals, proving that women are indispensable in shaping the future of the coffee industry in Singapore and beyond.

These trailblazers are more than just baristas; they are educators, mentors, and influencers, driving gender inclusivity and transforming the café culture in Singapore.

Empowering Women’s Voices in Coffee

At Six Four Coffee, we recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women in Southeast Asia’s coffee industry. Their dedication, expertise, and resilience shape the journey of ethically grown beans, from farm to cup.

Supporting women in coffee means taking meaningful steps such as advocating for training programmes to enhance their skills, backing community-driven initiatives that promote women's empowerment, and championing equitable opportunities within the coffee supply chain. Recognising and appreciating their contributions helps drive a more inclusive and equitable future.

Celebrate a more inclusive coffee community with Six Four Coffee’s ethically sourced beans.