17 years in the UAE: How this Australian expat is creating opportunities through coffee

Dubai-based Australian expat Ryan Godinho has been building the coffee industry in the UAE for the past 17 years. Initially, he started with a small coffee event, which eventually grew into the "International Coffee and Tea Festival." Godinho realized that an event alone could not build an industry, so he established the UAE's first national championships, including the first UAE Barista Championship. This event provided baristas working in the UAE with a route to the World Barista Championship.

Over time, more baristas have become interested in coffee, leading to increased participation, larger audiences, and greater appreciation for the beverage. Godinho has also become a lead instructor with the Specialty Coffee Association of America, bringing internationally recognized coffee education to the UAE. He created "Specialty Batch," an education and training platform, and later opened Stomping Grounds, a venue where customers could experience the process firsthand.

Godinho emphasizes the importance of education in the coffee industry. He has hosted the UAE's first "Latte Art Throwdown" and formed the UAE Coffee Club to create opportunities for people to connect and learn. By providing training and empowering others, Godinho has seen many people take those skills and create their own paths.

Living and working in a multicultural environment like Dubai has taught Godinho the importance of listening, clear communication, and being open to different ways of doing things. He has learned to adapt his approach to fit the Dubai market, as what works elsewhere may not necessarily translate to the UAE. Godinho's advice for other expatriates is to bring their useful experiences while also learning from their new surroundings, respecting the local culture, building good relationships, and supporting the community and industry around them.