Shillong, July 26: The next time when you enjoy a perfect cup of coffee in the misty weather of Shillong, you’ll know it’s crafted with passion and skill, steeped in the rich culture of these serene hills.

True it could be crafted by a barista trained through the comprehensive Barista Skills Training Program. This initiative, launched by The Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission (MFEC) in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India, aims to upskill the youth of Meghalaya and invigorate the region’s hospitality sector.

Although coffee drinking is a relatively new trend in the state, it has quickly become popular among both locals and tourists alike. Local entrepreneurs, such as 7000 Steps and Smoky Falls Tribe Coffee, have ventured into the coffee sector, crafting local Meghalaya coffee sourced directly from farmers in the region. As a result, baristas—experts in making and serving coffee—are becoming a highly valued skill force in Meghalaya.

Their expertise is essential to enhancing the culinary experience and ensuring customer satisfaction in cafes and restaurants.

What is a Barista?

A barista is not just a coffee maker but the heart and soul of a coffee shop. They primarily prepare and serve espresso-based coffee drinks, but their duties go beyond that. Baristas must have a deep understanding of different coffee beans, their origins, and the flavours they produce. They must also be proficient in operating espresso machines and other coffee-making equipment to ensure each cup meets high-quality standards.

Held at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Mawdiangdiang, the program attracted over 30 participants from diverse backgrounds, including students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and hospitality professionals. The training, covering everything from espresso brewing techniques to customer service excellence, equips participants with the skills needed to excel in the speciality coffee industry.

Baristas, often considered the heart and soul of a coffee shop, require a deep understanding of different coffee beans, their origins, and the flavours they produce. Trainers Yathisha K.P. and Tejas both seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the hospitality and coffee industries, led the participants through hands-on sessions and expert guidance.

Navin Kumar Bahl Ryntathiang, Joint Director (Extension) of the Coffee Board, North Eastern Region, emphasized the program’s importance in nurturing local talent and addressing the shortage of skilled baristas in the region. He highlighted the potential for future collaborations with state authorities to expand such training programs, creating more opportunities for the youth.

B.K. Sohliya, Executive Adviser/Chairman I/C of MFEC, praised the success of the inaugural training and expressed hope for more such programs in the future. He noted the enthusiastic response from local cafes and restaurants, which are eager to hire the newly trained baristas.

Participants shared their positive experiences and aspirations. Kevin from 7000 Steps mentioned how the training would enhance the coffee offerings at his establishment. Ibaiahun Majaw from Smoky Falls Tribe Coffee found the expert guidance invaluable. Demaia and Ritchiemiki Khyriem, both final-year students at IHM, expressed how the program opened up new career possibilities in the hospitality sector.

The Barista Skills Training Program is just one of many initiatives by MFEC aimed at empowering local communities. Beyond coffee, the commission has also been involved in training local fruit winemakers and obtaining geographical indications for regional products like Lakadong Turmeric and Khasi Mandarin.

As coffee culture continues to grow in Meghalaya, this training program is set to play a crucial role in developing a skilled workforce, enhancing the local hospitality industry, and providing new opportunities for the youth of the region.

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