Standing amidst vast acres of land that produce some of Hawaii's most exceptional coffee, time stood still. In that transformative moment, I found myself surrounded by Berta and her family's American Dream, overlooking the very coffee farm that had become the epicenter of their lives. Emotions surged within me – a mix of awe, admiration, and inspiration.
Berta's journey began when she arrived in America at the tender age of 17. Finding work in California's fruit orchards, she toiled under the sun, unaware of the life-altering encounter that awaited her. It was during this pivotal period that she crossed paths with Jose, an incredible and kind soul who would become her lifelong partner. Their union would set the stage for a remarkable adventure filled with dreams, challenges, and unwavering resilience.
One day, an enticing opportunity presented itself to Berta and Jose, bringing them to the enchanting landscapes of Hawaii. This brought them hope of a better life. However, upon their arrival, disillusionment struck their hearts. The promised job proved to be a letdown, leaving them disheartened and uncertain of their future. Undeterred by adversity, they resolved to carve a path for themselves on the island, no matter the circumstances.
Living in harsh conditions, their days were spent on hands and knees, diligently gathering macadamia nuts. The toil was arduous, but Berta and Jose held steadfast to their dreams. For 12 long years, they woke up at 5 am, embarking on hours-long drives to pick coffee, their hard-earned savings inching them closer to a singular aspiration: owning their very own coffee farm.
Today, their perseverance and unwavering dedication have blossomed into a story of triumph. Their remarkable coffee farm stands tall as a testament to their resilience, recognized as the deserving champion of the 2023 Hawaii Cupping Competition for Ka'u. Moreover, it achieved an impressive second place overall in the state. The taste of victory is sweeter when seasoned with unwavering determination.
Join me as I delve into the captivating narrative of Berta's pursuit of the American Dream in the newest episode of Where Coffee Takes You. Witness the remarkable journey of Berta's pursuit of her dreams, the resilience that carried her through the darkest moments, and the boundless joy that comes from savoring the fruits of her labor. Prepare to be inspired and uplifted every step of the way, I know I was!
Sources:
Hawaii Coffee Association Cupping Competition 2023 Winners - Top Ten in Hawaii, Accessed 02.19.2024
Hawaii Coffee Association Cupping Competition 2023 Winners - District Awards, Accessed 02.19.2024
