We go beyond fair trade.
At Alif, we believe that exceptional coffee begins with honoring the people and cultures behind it. That’s why we don’t stop at fair trade — we go beyond.
Our approach is rooted in respect, transparency, and deep cultural engagement. We don’t just source coffee; we build relationships. Through our Beyond Fair Trade program, we amplify the voices of farmers, ensuring they are not just participants in the supply chain, but active co-creators in how their stories, products, and communities are represented.
Investing in the human side of coffee.
We spend time on the ground — listening, learning, and breaking bread with the producers who steward the land and uphold centuries-old traditions. These are not transactional visits. They’re shared moments. Conversations over buna. Morning walks through misty fields. Laughter around kitchen fires.
We aim to create safe, sustaining spaces where producers feel heard, valued, and supported — not just economically, but culturally and emotionally.
This isn’t charity. It’s partnership.
It’s a shared lifestyle — one rooted in integrity, celebration, and mutual growth.
Our Principles
Quality
To distinguish between the highest calibers, we met coffee farmers who taught us how to evaluate the soil, pick the plants, and wash the beans by hand.
Accountability
We aim to amplify farmers’ voices. These brave, hard workers suffer from immense hardships due to droughts and lack of resources.
Transparency
It takes an entire community of farmers to make every sip of our delicious coffee. We uphold the responsibility to tell their stories.
Meet the team
We’re a group of coffee enthusiasts who’ve spent over a decade immersed in the craft—from sourcing at origin to roasting in New York City.
Founded as a social impact venture, Alif is rooted in a deep commitment to East Africa’s farming communities. We focus on ethical sourcing, direct relationships, and reinvestment in the regions that make our work possible.
Every roast reflects a shared dedication to quality, culture, and the people behind the beans.
Mo
Cup & Connection
Bringing the final pour closer to the hands that grew it.
Cup of choice: Hokkaido Pour-Over
Abdullah
Harvest & Purpose
Rooting every decision in impact, equity, and origin.
Cup of choice: Cappuccino
Jakir
Flow & Foundation
Quietly building the systems that sustain our craft.
Cup of choice: Cortado
Farooq
Seasons & Stewardship
Guiding our growth with rhythm, care, and long-view wisdom.