A Glitter Cat Barista Announcement
It is with many emotions that we announce the closing of Glitter Cat Barista.
Five years ago, what started as one person's dream started a movement. Inspiring hundreds of people and organizations to trust in themselves, embrace their authenticity, and make the coffee industry [and beyond] a more chaotic, colorful, and good place to exist.
Continue reading for a message from our Founder and Chief Glitter Officer, Veronica Pearl.
When the late Axel Cat and I started Glitter Cat, with the help, guidance, and support of our nearest and dearest, we hoped to help marginalized coffee professionals access a visible platform to share their stories. We sought to create spaces where they felt seen, heard, and valued. Glitter Cat became far more than that. We became a safe space for humans to represent their authentic selves and fiercely belong to a group of misfits lovingly known as The Glitter Cats.
Most importantly, through Glitter Cat programming, we found new role models in the specialty coffee industry. As a more diverse group of competitors took up space on those stages, other people were inspired to compete because they finally saw someone who looked like them or identified similarly. Together, we showed the industry that we can impact change. Glitter Cats are leaders throughout the specialty coffee industry. Glitter Legends have become entrepreneurs, launched coffee shops, roasting companies, and oat milk manufacturers. They've become visible community leaders, creating other organizations to support the community we call “coffee”.
This impact was only possible because of you. Your support over the years was vital to our ability to run these programs and reach every human who has been a part of Glitter Cat. One million thank yous will never be enough to express our gratitude, so please take two million! Keeping in line with our commitment to trustful transparency, Glitter Cat’s closing financials will be posted on our website in early 2024 once we have filed our government forms.
Many of you know that the last year has been personally and professionally taxing for me. I lost more than I could have imagined, and through that process, I've gained more than I thought possible. With all that we have accomplished at Glitter Cat, and the priorities in my personal life, this is the right moment to conclude the official work of the organization
It has been a joy and a pleasure to work with hundreds of you over the years. I’ve learned so much, made countless mistakes, relied on the help and guidance of those surrounding me, and have become a stronger person and professional. The best part of this transition is that this is not a goodbye! Glitter Cat lives on through the energy and spirit of everyone who has touched this organization. I expect that when this glitter settles, new sensational glitter will continue to rise!
I've cried three million tears over this last half-decade. Tears of joy, sadness, grief, ecstasy, anger, and pride. These salty droplets don't end here; they taste slightly differently.
From Other Cat and I, stay f*cking fabulous,
Veronica Pearl (she/her)
