Every day working in the coffee cart is an adventure
In early 2024, Alkira proudly launched Baristas AlkiraBiz, a mobile coffee cart designed to give participants hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of hospitality. The cart has quickly become a beloved feature within the Alkira community, offering delicious coffee while fostering skill-building opportunities for participants.
Baristas AlkiraBiz serves as a unique learning environment where participants can develop barista and customer service skills. From taking orders to frothing milk, every step in the process is an opportunity for growth.
Chelsea has been working at the coffee cart since it started and has loved her time at Baristas AlkiraBiz, describing it as a fun and rewarding experience. “I like working in a team environment and making shots of coffee. Frothing milk and taking orders is fun, and I like working with new people,” she shared enthusiastically. She looks forward to Thursdays when the cart heads to different locations, as it gives her the opportunity to interact with more customers and experience new settings. For Chelsea, every day working in the coffee cart is an adventure, filled with learning and exciting challenges.
Over the past year, Chelsea has gained a wide range of barista skills. “Using the coffee machine was one of the key skills I learned,” she says. But like any new role, there have been challenges along the way. One of the more difficult tasks was perfecting the milk frothing process. “Sometimes I overfill the milk jug and it overflows,” Chelsea admitted, but with time and practice, she has learned to put less milk in the jug and ensure the steam wand is positioned correctly.
Chelsea’s growing confidence and skills don’t stop at the coffee machine. She has also developed customer service skills, which she’s proud of. “I like working with customers and helping them get their coffee,” she says. Recently, Chelsea has even stopped needing to read off the service guide, now comfortably interacting with customers without prompts. She aspires to gain paid work 1-2 days a week in a similar role, reflecting on how her experience with Baristas AlkiraBiz has solidified her interest in customer service and hospitality.
None of this would have been possible without the support of Alkira’s dedicated staff. A special thank you goes to Sarah, Jack, Dom, and Nick, who have been instrumental in getting Baristas AlkiraBiz up and running and providing day-to-day management. Their guidance has been key in helping participants like Chelsea thrive in this new venture. Chelsea also gives special credit to Sarah and Jack for helping her learn new skills and for making the experience enjoyable.
As Baristas AlkiraBiz continues to grow, it remains an exciting space for participants to gain confidence, learn new skills, and be a part of the community.
