Honestly Man, where do I start?

 

I'm a Los Angeles native, born the daughter of two felons from South Central LA. 'Easy' is the last word I'd use to describe my upbringing but without the struggle I wouldn't be the proud black woman  I am today.
 

My journey to come to love the world of coffee beans is a long one. I've made my way from observer, casual drinker, to an expert over the last 15 years. It's a journey that's proven not just educational, but incredibly rewarding. 

​

I grew up with the smell of coffee and cream seeping out of every corner of our cramped and over crowded apartment in the morning. My mom drank coffee like it was water and I fondly remember her cup sparking my interest even at the tender age of seven. I often wondered 'man, what's in mom's cup that makes her so happy?' 

 

Years later, after numerous trials and tribulations trying to make my way into the world, that joy became my own. I dove head first into the world of coffee as a young college student desperate to find ways to make some money. I started my coffee journey in Washington D.C. at Starbucks on 3rd & Pennsylvania as a part-time barista. And let me tell you, it was love at first sip. I felt a sense of community, like I was finally back at home. 

 

I moved back to California and that kicked off the start of my investment in the coffee world full time. I was so committed to learning more about where the beans came from, the delicate roasting process, and the complex flavors that coffee continued to offer to customers, no matter where I was planted. Attending my first cupping was one of the biggest highlights in my coffee journey. Yeah, I knew about different roasts and flavor notes, but to have someone break it down for me was a learning experience I hadn't experienced yet. That's when I decided that coffee and the coffee community was what I wanted to pour myself into for the rest of my life. I wanted to learn and receive all the coffee knowledge I could. In 2014, I was introduced to Specialty Coffee and ever since have been learning more about latte art, espresso, upping my sensory awareness, learning more about grind settings, and opening myself up more to the coffee community. 

 

Since then, I decided to dedicate myself to becoming a Coffee Master and sharing the knowledge that I've acquired with any and everyone that I can! A struggle doesn't have to be the end to your story, and coffee helped me realize just that. 

Thanks for taking the time to swing by Barista Life LA and I can't wait to share a conversation and a cup with you soon! 

​

LaNisa