The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, laced with the warmth of family history, wafted through the air as The Giving Café opened its doors to a new chapter in Mandaluyong City. Nestled within a mid-century home, the second branch of this social enterprise wasn't just a café; it was a testament to the unwavering passion of its founder, Michael Harris Conlin, a champion barista and a tireless advocate for Philippine coffee.
Stepping inside, one couldn't help but be transported back in time. The house, built by Mr. Conlin's grandfather, Juan Bautista Lee, in the 1950s, held a special place in his heart. It was here, amidst the laughter and warmth of his childhood, that his mother and siblings had grown up, their memories woven into the very fabric of the home. The café's interior was a tribute to this past, with carefully curated vignettes showcasing the family's cherished moments. Afternoon tea setups, complete with delicate china and steaming cups, whispered tales of elegant gatherings, while the main living room and dining room were adorned with feasts reminiscent of childhood memories – kaldereta simmering on the stove, pancit noodles steaming in baskets, and a Chinese-style roast chicken, a testament to the family's culinary heritage.
But beyond the nostalgic charm, The Giving Café was a beacon
of hope for Philippine coffee farmers. Mr. Conlin, a man who had tasted success
in the international coffee scene, placing 15th in the World Barista
Championship Semifinals in 2019 and winning awards for his latte and brewing
skills, was driven by a deeper purpose. He believed in the potential of
Philippine coffee, a belief that fueled his dedication to empowering farmers
and bringing their unique beans to the world stage.
Mr. Conlin's commitment to this vision extended beyond the
café. He was the driving force behind Henry & Sons, a coffee roastery that
provided a platform for Filipino coffee beans, and the Foundation for
Sustainable Coffee Excellence, a non-profit organization that provided
educational assistance, sustainable farming practices seminars, and basic
healthcare access to coffee farming communities.
The Giving Café was a tangible manifestation of his
philosophy of giving back. A portion of its proceeds was directly donated to
the Foundation, ensuring that the farmers who nurtured the beans were directly
benefited. The impact was tangible. In Itogon, Benguet, one of the communities
where The Giving Café sourced its coffee, the collective harvest had increased
from 60 families yielding five kilograms of coffee each to a staggering five
tons. This success story was a testament to the power of collaboration and the
positive impact of supporting local communities.
The success of The Giving Café was a testament to the power
of community and the importance of supporting local businesses. It was a beacon
of hope, a testament to Mr. Conlin's vision for a brighter future for
Philippine coffee, where farmers were empowered, communities thrived, and the
world could experience the unique flavors and stories behind every cup. Each
sip was a journey, a celebration of the rich heritage of Philippine coffee, and
a promise of a more sustainable and equitable future for the farmers who poured
their hearts and souls into cultivating the beans.
The second branch of The Giving Café is at 858a A. Mabini
St., Brgy. Addition Hills in Mandaluyong City. It’s open from Tuesday to
Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The first outlet is on the corner of Sheridan
and Pines Streets, Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City. It is open from Monday to
Sunday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Follow @tgcsocialentrep on Facebook and
Instagram; for reservations call 0927-247-1490, 0985-128-4751 or 8518-9291.
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