Jaye Sanders’ story isn’t just about coffee; it’s about resilience, finding joy in the small things, and sharing that happiness. From New Zealand, she began working with coffee at 15, but it’s her personal journey that truly shines.
Jaye Sanders
Jaye’ journey into the world of coffee isn’t marked by world championships or grand moments of fame; instead, it’s a story of passion, resilience, and personal connection. For Jaye, coffee is more than a career—it’s a way of life that intertwines her love for family, community, and personal growth.
Her story began at the age of 15, when she stepped into the world of coffee as a barista. Over the years, she evolved from a part-timer to a professional roaster, cafe manager, and head barista at Firsthand Coffee Roasters. But what makes Jaye’s journey special is the way she has navigated personal challenges, including managing physical pain and finding strength in her love for coffee.
One of the most significant inspirations in Jaye’s life is her late sister, Maja, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2020. Maja was not just her sister but a fierce competitor and artist who helped bring Jaye’s vision, “Your Local Barista,” to life.
Jaye Sanders’s coffee journey
“I am allowed to share her love of coffee through my love of coffee,”
Jaye reflects. Maja’s memory drives Jaye forward, pushing her to share her passion for coffee with the world, every single day.
Jaye’s career has not been without struggles. She has faced physical challenges due to having three screws in her lower back. While this might have deterred many, she found a way to adapt and continue doing what she loves, learning to stay upright and comfortable during long shifts. Her perseverance speaks to her dedication, showing that passion can overcome even the toughest obstacles.
Jaye’s work is not just about brewing coffee; it’s about building a community. From her early days working alongside her best friend, she discovered the joy of connecting with people over a cup of coffee. Now, she’s using her platform to share her knowledge and connect with others. Her advice to fellow baristas and coffee enthusiasts: find the bean you love, do your own research, and have fun—because if you enjoy it, it will never feel like work.
In recent years, Jaye has had the opportunity to judge the Aotearoa Barista Champs Finals 2024, an experience she describes as intense but amazing. She shares her gratitude to everyone who helped her get there, especially her Firsthand Coffee family. “
It was an amazing weekend filled with love, support, and of course… lots of coffee,”
she wrote on Instagram, acknowledging the importance of community in her journey.
In August 2024, Jaye also competed in the Cup Tasters Championship, learning valuable lessons about patience and preparation. Although she didn’t achieve the result she hoped for, she remains committed to improving her skills.
“I only got 4/8 this time. But all the more knowledge for training next year, right?”
Her optimism and determination continue to shine through, motivating her to do better every year.
Interestingly, Jaye credits playing guitar as a therapeutic exercise for her wrists—something she recommends to other baristas dealing with repetitive strain. “Guitar and knitting are great things to do for baristas’ wrists,” she notes. Her love for music complements her coffee craft, creating a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Jaye’s story may not be filled with trophies and titles, but it resonates deeply because it represents the passion of many in the coffee industry. It’s about finding purpose, embracing community, and navigating life’s ups and downs, all through the lens of coffee. Her journey shows that success isn’t always about being the best; sometimes, it’s about finding joy, sharing love, and continuing to grow—one cup at a time.
“Success looks like happiness,”
she says, a sentiment that encapsulates her journey perfectly. For Jaye, coffee isn’t just a job—it’s a lifestyle, a connection to her late sister, and a source of daily inspiration.
Jaye continues to inspire others with her dedication to the craft. As a head roaster, cafe manager, and barista, she represents a new generation of coffee professionals who blend passion with purpose. Her resilience, optimism, and joy shine through everything she does, making her story a testament to the strength of community, love, and endless learning.
Editor’s Note
We first received Jaye’s story in 2022, but it slipped through the cracks and was left unpublished. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories can get overlooked, yet they remain as relevant as ever. Today, we’re proud to finally share Jaye’s journey, one that highlights resilience, love, and the simple joys of life. We hope her passion for coffee and the memory of her sister, Maja, inspire you just as much as they have inspired us. Sometimes, it’s never too late to share a story that matters.
Coffee connects.
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