Why are young people leaving coffee farms? We often say they are not interested in agriculture. But perhaps the question is: what opportunity are they being offered? A young person may weed, harvest or process coffee without land, income, training or having a voice in decisions. There may be work—but no role, independent reward or clear path forward. Leaving may be a rational search for agency. Youth inclusion cannot depend only on inheritance. Coffee also needs cuppers, processing technicians, logistics specialists, digital storytellers and entrepreneurs. But training alone is not a career pathway. What comes next—a paid role, equipment, mentoring, credit or responsibility? Young people should help design these opportunities, not simply be invited into programs created for them. Not every young person must remain in coffee. The goal is to make coffee a credible choice, offering skills, income, dignity and room to build something of their own.
