Coffee Festival backs Scotland’s first Barista Scholarship Programme

Hospitality training company Hub International is collaborating with the organisers of the Glasgow Coffee Festival to introduce Scotland’s first Barista Scholarship programme.

Head of youth training at Hub International, Mhairi Strohm, said: “The coffee industry is booming and seen as an exciting, vibrant industry to work in. Our scholarship will give one deserving scholar an insight into the whole industry, from the art of making coffee to working within a roastery.

“They will gain professional SCA (Speciality Coffee Association) qualifications and be fully equipped ready to work within the coffee industry, contributing to its continued growth,” said Strohm.

“We are a community focused social enterprise committed to breaking down the barriers some young people encounter when finding work,” she added. “We are encouraging young people from any background to apply for the scholarship opportunity.”

Strohm described the Glasgow Coffee Festival as an ideal collaborator for launching the scholarship. An annual gathering cherished by speciality coffee afficionados, the festival is a dynamic platform for Scotland’s speciality coffee community.

“Together, our goal is to provide unwavering support and guidance to our local youth, nurturing their talents and paving the way for their success within the coffee and broader hospitality industry.”

The proceeds generated from the Glasgow Coffee Festival will be contributed to Hub International’s social enterprise, establishing a year-long opportunity for one deserving scholar.

Lisa Lawson, founder of Dear Green Coffee Roasters & Glasgow Coffee Festival, added: “Since its launch in 2014, Glasgow Coffee Festival has always been about giving back to the local community. We hope that this scholarship will provide young people with not only the skills to achieve a career in speciality coffee but also a chance to experience the exciting and vibrant coffee community.”

The scholarship is open to anyone over the age of 16 and living in Glasgow – to apply, go to https://traininghub.as.me/GCF