“How Ethiopian coffee taught me to value the human experience.”

Growing up in Ethiopia, I witnessed the power of buna, or coffee, to bring people together in a way that transcends mere caffeine consumption. As my mother prepared the traditional display of coffee shot glasses, pot, small pan, and clay hot charcoals, I could feel the excitement building among those who had gathered to partake in this special ritual. The smell of the smoke, blown towards everyone by my mother, stimulated our senses and signaled that the coffee was almost ready.

As the coffee beans were ground, boiled, and served, stories were shared, laughter filled the air, and bonds were strengthened. I realized that this ritual was not just about coffee, but about creating a shared experience that brought people together. It was a lesson in the power of human-centered design to create memorable experiences that are both pleasurable and satisfying.

This lesson has stayed with me throughout my life and has influenced my passion for design. By understanding human behavior and using empathy to create products and services that are centered around the needs and desires of people, we can create experiences that leave a lasting impact. Whether it's through a shared cup of coffee or a well-designed product, the power of human connection can never be underestimated.