Inside We Aspire’s Barista Course that’s inspiring women to create, connect, and carve their own path.
By: Jacob Rosero
A Fresh Start Over a Cup of Coffee
When I first walked into the Barista Lab at We Aspire Education Support Services LLC in Al Garhoud, I expected the hum of espresso machines and the aroma of roasted beans. What I didn’t expect was laughter — genuine, contagious laughter.
Around the machines, a group of mothers in crisp aprons were steaming milk, discussing espresso ratios, and cheering one another on. These weren’t just students learning a new craft — they were women rediscovering a sense of identity and independence, one cup at a time.
In Dubai, where mornings begin with that sacred sip of coffee before the rush of school runs, a growing number of women are taking their love for coffee a step further — transforming it into a new beginning.
Brewing Confidence, One KHDA-Certified Cup at a Time
Inside the classroom, confidence was everywhere — in the way they frothed milk, measured espresso shots, and perfected latte art. But behind one student’s steady hands stood a proud smile — his mom’s.
“For years, I focused on giving my son every opportunity to grow. Enrolling him in this barista course was my way of saying, I believe in you. Watching him gain confidence and passion with every cup he makes — that’s the best reward.”
— Mrs. Arciaga, mother of a recent We Aspire graduate, Renee Bhoy Arciaga.
Her son’s journey mirrors many others who’ve discovered that a cup of coffee can brew more than flavor — it can brew purpose. As Mr. Bryan, the barista trainer, shared:
“We’ve seen young trainees walk in unsure, but with their family’s encouragement, they grow into confident, skillful baristas — ready to take on real opportunities and maybe even start their own cafés.”
This isn’t just a training course — it’s a space where support, confidence, and dreams blend together, one cup at a time.
A Space to Grow and Dream Again
What makes this program truly special is how perfectly it fits into the lives of Dubai’s mothers.
- Flexible Fit: Classes run on weekdays and weekends — perfectly aligned with school schedules. Moms can drop off the kids, attend class, and be home before the afternoon rush.
- A Professional Passport: Every graduate receives a KHDA-approved certification, an official credential that opens doors to professional café work or a home-based venture.
- Kitchen Counters to Coffee Counters: Many students, like Laila, are already brewing success stories.
“I’ve always dreamed of opening my own café — a place that feels warm, welcoming, and full of life. Studying barista is my first step toward that dream. What makes it even more special is that my kids share the same love for café drinks. One of them makes an amazing matcha! I imagine us working together one day, blending their creativity with my passion, and serving drinks that bring joy to every age — from little ones to grown-ups.”
—Laila, Barista Student, Mother of Three.
It’s not just a course — it’s a safe, supportive space to dream again and reclaim time for personal growth.
More Than Coffee — It’s Community and Career
What struck me most wasn’t only the coffee quality — it was the sense of community. These women weren’t just learning; they were connecting, collaborating, and cheering each other on.
“We call ourselves the ‘Latte Ladies.’ We have a WhatsApp group where we share business ideas, recommend suppliers, and celebrate milestones. It’s a network I desperately needed as a stay-at-home mom.”
— Dina, We Aspire Barista Course Alumni
From home pop-up cafés to collaborations at events, their newfound network continues long after the final class ends. It’s proof that coffee can brew more than just beverages — it can brew belonging.
A Taste of Empowerment
As I stepped out of We Aspire’s barista lab, I realized this wasn’t just about espresso machines or latte art. It was about courage — the quiet kind that pushes women to start anew, rediscover themselves, and build something meaningful.
For these moms, every pour represents a promise — a blend of passion, resilience, and second chances.
Because at We Aspire, they’re not just brewing coffee.
They’re brewing confidence, courage, and new beginnings — one cup at a time.