Lot 6: Los Pinos Reniery Orlando Carvajal

My name is Reniery Orlando Carvajal Guevara. I am 53 years old, and for more than 25 of those years, I have dedicated myself—alongside my wife—to the boundless world of coffee.

Over time, coffee has become much more than just a job: it is my way of life, my passion, and the legacy I have worked tirelessly to build for my family. I feel deeply fulfilled because, thanks to this noble work, I have been able to broaden the horizons of my children’s education and personal development, while also passing on the same values that my grandparents once instilled in me.

Our farm holds a very special meaning for us—not only because of its economic importance, but because it is a family legacy passed down through generations. From my grandparents, who worked with traditional varieties, to the present day, the farm has borne witness to dreams, struggles, and harvests. Coffee farming is the foundation of our history, and that’s why we hold it in such high regard—with love and respect. Every coffee bean carries a little piece of our roots; it is our passion and our tradition.

Since childhood, I dreamed of owning my own farm. Watching my grandparents work the land with patience and dedication awakened in me a deep love for this crop. Without even realizing it, I followed in their footsteps, hoping that one day I could make a living from it.

However, the journey hasn’t always been easy. One of the greatest challenges I faced as a coffee farmer came in 2012, when coffee rust devastated many farms, and prices plummeted across the board. It was an incredibly difficult time. What helped me endure was my parallel work in cattle ranching, which gave me the financial breathing room to stay on my feet and start over—always believing in the quality of our coffee and our land.

Participating in the Cup of Excellence has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Being able to showcase the quality of our coffee and see it valued on the international stage fills me with pride. This event has not only opened doors to new markets, but also taught me greater discipline in coffee processing and how to continue improving year after year. Knowing that our work can transcend borders and be recognized for its flavor and dedication is incredibly motivating. It inspires me to keep moving forward, caring for each bean as if it were the first. That’s why, here and everywhere, I will always be proud to say: I am a coffee farmer.