Hafiz Mangalji started an incredible space for coffee enthusiasts. Deep in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Hafiz and his wife Kate have put together an amazing playground for the coffee curious and coffee passionate. Hyunah Coffee Club is a space for those passionate about coffee can come and try out tools and coffees they might not normally have access to. For $30 a month, Hafiz has provided a space where you can try multiple thousand dollar pieces of equipment and coffees that are hard to find. The community he has been able to build is incredible. He is unlocking the next generation of the cafe, building and creating a club where members feel at home and feel empowered to try what’s next in coffee. The space and those in charge are amazing and fully deserve this nomination.
Nominated by Shannon McConnell
How many years total have you worked in the coffee industry?
One
What was your first coffee job?
HYUNAH Coffee Club
Did you experience a life-changing moment of coffee revelation early in your career?
Yes, the difference between a blade and burr grinder was even more than a life-changing moment.
Is there a person or persons who served as your mentor early in your coffee career? How did they impact you?
Brian Quan and Lance Hedrick. Relentless education made fun.
What is your current role in coffee?
Co-founder of HYUNAH Coffee Club alongside my wife Kate.
What facet of the coffee industry has changed the most during your career?
Home enthusiasts.
What still surprises you today about coffee, or gives you joy?
The love and affection of everyone in the coffee community.
What’s something about the coffee industry you’d most like to see change?
Lower and easier ways for more people to enter and learn.
What is your most cherished coffee memory?
SEY House.
Do you make coffee at home? If so, tell us how you brew!
SOUP at home and filter at the clubhouse!
What is your favorite song/music to brew coffee to?
Afrobeats.
What is your idea of coffee happiness?
Communal brewing.
If you could drink coffee with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?
My late grandmother because I want to see her again.
What’s one piece of advice you would give someone getting their start in the coffee industry today?
Be kind and open.
The Sprudge Twenty feature series is proudly presented by Pacific Barista Series.
