José Elvio Ortega, Finca La Granadilla

It coincided more or less with the school holidays, so I didn't miss much school, and we really needed the money, so we all had to work. We usually went to collect crops in El Salvador, since I grew up in a small town near the border and there were more opportunities there.

But we didn't have our own land; we always worked for other people. Once I became an adult, I moved to Mercedes, where the CAFESMO cooperative is located. Little by little, I bought land. It's been a tough struggle. Many days I skipped meals to save money. Now I own 3.8 hectares.

It's still a struggle, but owning land also offers us some long-term stability, and we worry less about where our next meal comes from. All the land I bought was already used for growing coffee, but I'm gradually changing the varieties to focus more and more on Parainema.

Thanks to my membership in CAFESMO, I was able to certify the farm with the FTO seal. Furthermore, since becoming a member, I'm learning more about soil conservation and water management, as well as techniques for preparing specialty coffees. It's a great way to diversify my offerings and also to keep the land clean and healthy in the long term. Climate change worries me, but since my farm is located at 1,400 meters, I know I'll be able to grow great coffees for many years to come.

My three children are still young, the oldest is 13, and I'm very grateful that they can go to school without me having to work, as was the case for me. But I notice that they're drawn to what I do. They love climbing in the back of the car and driving with me to the farm, their faces and hair blowing in the wind. When they come with me, it's mostly to play while I work, but I can see the interest on their faces when I explain what I'm doing, and they always ask questions or are eager to help.

So my next goal is to establish a long-term relationship with one or two roasters, to work hand in hand and make coffee together that we can be truly proud of. Not just for myself and for now, but also because I know that at least one of my children will be able to continue developing what we're building now, for the next generation. To ensure future livelihoods, but above all, to continue enjoying great coffee.