Journey in Honduras
Seven people from our Group explored the beating heart of the Ocotepeque and Copán mountains for the first time as part of the Ambassador Programme. It was a unique opportunity to visit the coffee plantations in Honduras and discover the country's history and challenges, on a journey during which they were able to experience the dedication of growers and appreciate the commitment of our Group and the Lavazza Foundation to local communities.
“I used to think the coffee industry was the preserve of a few large corporations, and it was a real surprise for me to discover just how many small businesses and families are actually involved in the supply chain. It’s their tireless passion that adds value to every bean.”
Hands in the earth
As soon as they arrived in San Marcos, the Ambassadors gained first-hand insights into the lives of local growers. Their first experience took them to Nicola’s Farm, where they learned techniques for preparing the soil and producing organic fertilisers, as well as taking part in the symbolic act of planting "pequeños soldados" or coffee seedlings.
It’s a process that embodies the careful balance between centuries-old traditions and modern farming practices, which in our case ended with a pot of "cowboy coffee" brewed over an open fire, giving our people a real taste of the local culture.
"As a Coffee Trainer, I already knew the many steps of the coffee supply chain. However, experiencing them firsthand radically transformed my perspective, in a way no book or course ever could. I personally witnessed the history and effort hidden behind every single bean. I hope that sharing my experience can help everyone appreciate their daily coffee with a different kind of awareness."
The strength of the community
The group’s next stop was the Cocamol cooperative. Established in 1997 with the support of 20 producers, it now has 134 members. The cooperative produces and sells high-quality coffee with the aim of making a tangible difference to the lives of growers in the Mercedes region.
In the social sphere, the cooperative promotes gender equality, with women making up 33% of the management board, and access to healthcare services, with the refurbishment of the local health centre. Another important project was the installation of drinking water purification systems benefiting about 8,000 people. Cocamol is also involved in projects for children, women and young people, organising English language courses and sports programmes, and actively advocating for more female participation in the cooperative’s activities.
In addition to these important social and environmental projects, the Ambassadors were able to observe every stage of the coffee production process at the cooperative, from washing to drying. They learned how every batch is subject to stringent quality controls, including careful weight checks and defect assessments. This meticulous care guarantees excellent coffee and now drives real development in growers’ lives.
“In countries like Honduras, coffee is the lifeblood of so many families. It offers them real opportunities to work, earn an income and build a future for their children. While we see this as the result of our own efforts, for them it represents their entire life prospects."
“This journey has shown me how our Group is an important partner for Honduran communities. The gratitude and trust I’ve seen in people’s eyes are tangible proof that our collaboration is a real driver of prosperity.”
The next important stop in the journey was a school visit, where the group of Ambassadors saw first-hand the impact of the Neumann Foundation’s project to find an English language teacher for the students. The children and teachers gave them a memorable welcome, greeting them with great warmth and emotion and singing the Honduran national anthem.
“It was moving to see the direct impact of our support, especially during the visit to the school. The joy in the children's eyes at the chance to learn English – something we take for granted – was proof that a small initiative can spark great hope.”
Science that Protects the Future: IHCAFE
How can we protect coffee from climate change? At Honduran coffee research institute IHCAFE, the Ambassadors explored the strategies that the institute is putting in place to develop more resilient coffee varieties, in collaboration with engineers and biologists. They also listened to growers’ stories and the everyday challenges they face, including the threat posed by climate change, which at these latitudes impacts the delicate flowering process and triggers extreme weather events ranging from floods to droughts. Despite these challenges, producers are responding with courage, supported by research initiatives, the programmes run by the Lavazza Foundation, and the commitment of local partners to ensuring the sustainability of harvests and the well-being of families.
“I’ve discovered that coffee production is sustained primarily by the hard work of small family-run farms. The determination they show embodies the true spirit of this beverage.”
“My greatest discovery has been connecting with the origins of our coffee by meeting the people who make it possible. I’ve realised that Lavazza Group’s commitment to sustainability isn’t just theory, but has a real impact on people’s lives, revealing the true essence behind every cup.”
The journey reached its climax with a deep dive into the cultural roots of Honduras, surrounded by the majestic ruins of Copán, also famously known as the “Athens of the Mayan World”. As they wandered through temples, squares and pyramids, where the echoes of a bygone era meet the vibrancy of the present, the Ambassadors discovered the ancient history of this land, which still defines its spirit today.
