Chief Tasting Event, Part 1: Sipping on Change – Nikisha Bailey’s Journey from Music Exec to Coffee Trailblazer
We are continuously celebrating Black History Month, and this year, we had the privilege of honoring two trailblazing figures who demonstrate coffee's power to unite: Nikisha Bailey, co-founder of Win Win Coffee, and Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known African-American master distiller. Their stories remind us that coffee, like history, is rich, layered, and best appreciated when shared.
A Coffee Tasting with Purpose
On the last Wednesday of February 19th, members of Chief gathered for a truly special event: a coffee tasting led by Nikisha Bailey. Her journey is one of transformation, resilience, and purpose. Picture this: a high-powered music industry executive, working with some of the biggest names in the business, suddenly decides to take a leap of faith into the world of coffee. Why? Because she saw an opportunity to make an impact on farmers, communities, and the way we experience coffee itself.
She traded boardrooms for coffee farms, contracts for sustainability initiatives, and platinum records for ethically sourced coffee beans. In doing so, she built Win Win Coffee, a brand that stands for more than just great coffee; it represents fairness, sustainability, and deep-rooted community partnerships.
Lessons Brewed to Perfection
As we sipped our coffee and listened to Nikisha’s story, a few powerful lessons stood out:
☕ Embracing New Paths – Walking away from a successful career wasn’t easy, but Nikisha knew she was meant for something greater. Her pivot toward sustainability has not only enriched her life but has also cultivated lasting relationships with coffee-growing communities worldwide.
☕ The Art of Continuous Learning – From mastering the delicate nuances of roasting to understanding the business complexities of ethical sourcing, Nikisha’s journey is proof that lifelong learning is essential. Passion can take you far, but education and adaptability ensure you thrive.
☕ Coffee as a Force for Good – Every cup of Win Win Coffee tells a story—not just of rich flavors but of farmers getting fair wages, of sustainable practices that protect the earth, and of a movement toward more conscious consumption.
A Toast to Legacy
The event concluded with a heartfelt tribute to Nathan “Nearest” Green, a man whose contributions to the distilling world have shaped history. Known as the first African-American master distiller, Nearest Green’s craftsmanship and expertise were instrumental in perfecting techniques still used today. His legacy, much like a well-aged whiskey or a perfectly brewed coffee, is something to be savored and honored.
As we raised our cups, we weren’t just toasting to great coffee. We were toasting to resilience, to innovation, and to the incredible Black leaders who continue to shape industries, one bold move at a time.
Your Invitation to the Table
What’s your favorite coffee ritual? Do you have a special blend or a memory tied to your favorite cup? Let’s continue this celebration of culture, history, and great coffee.
And if you haven’t yet, take a moment to explore Win Win Coffee—because every sip is a win for you, the farmers, and the planet. ☕🌍💙
