June 28, 2019: A Dream Realized in the World of Coffee

Five years ago, on June 28, 2019, I accomplished one of my lifelong dreams, despite facing doubts and skepticism from those closest to me. With a bachelor’s degree in hand, I chose to pursue a career in the food and beverage (F&B) industry, specifically as a barista—a decision that puzzled many, especially my father. He saw the F&B line as a dead-end job with a meager salary and limited career advancement opportunities. But for reasons I couldn't fully articulate then, I saw something different. I was filled with hope and excitement about working as a barista, a passion that had been brewing in me since I was six years old.

A Childhood Love Affair with Coffee

My love for coffee began in my childhood, during a visit to a relative’s house in a rural hometown. Being the only child, I was served a hot cup of coffee along with the adults. When I hesitated, my grandmother, known for her strictness, told me to drink it and learn to appreciate what was offered, as it was impolite to ask for something else. My first sip was bitter, but as I continued to drink, the bitterness turned into a pleasant sweetness. That moment sparked a lifelong fascination with coffee.

Choosing an Unconventional Path

After graduating, I took a job as a barista. People often asked why I chose this path instead of pursuing something related to my degree. My response was simple: a job is a job, and as long as it pays, it is a job worth having. I also believed that starting from the bottom was essential to truly understand the industry before considering any management positions. 

Three years into my barista journey, I had started as a part-timer and gradually transitioned to a full-time position. After a year and a half, an opportunity arose for me to join the management team. This was a significant turning point, culminating in the events of June 28, 2019.

The Big Day: June 28, 2019

On that day, I, along with a group of talented women from the southern team, went to Kuala Lumpur to take a managerial test. The nerves I felt were far greater than those during my SPM exams. It was my first formal test in my first job, marking the beginning of my career. The pressure was immense, but so was the determination to succeed.

When the results were announced, we had all aced the test. The joy and satisfaction I felt were unparalleled. For the first time, I felt truly proud of myself. I had proven wrong those who doubted my career choice and questioned how far I could go in this field. On June 28, 2019, I could confidently say, “Look, I made it!”

 Looking Forward: New Aspirations

While that day marked a significant achievement, it also set the stage for new aspirations. I realized that my ambitions had grown beyond the world of coffee. I now dream of becoming a billionaire, and to achieve that, I need to adopt a new mindset. The lessons learned and the experiences gained in the F&B industry will always be a part of me, but my journey is far from over.

In conclusion, June 28, 2019, was a milestone that demonstrated the importance of following one's passion and starting from the bottom. It was a day that validated my unconventional career choice and set the foundation for my future goals. Here's to new dreams, new challenges, and new achievements.