Every two years, the National Vocational Skills Competition, organized by the Chinese Educational Center, gathers professionals from various industries to showcase their talents and dedication. This prestigious event is not just a platform for skill recognition but a celebration of community, hard work, and passion.
In 2024, I’M NOT A BARISTA had the honor of contributing to this meaningful initiative. Thanks to Xiaoya, a talented barista we supported in 2023, we connected with the event organizers and offered a special gift to every competitor, judge, and volunteer: our iconic wristbands.
Raising Awareness and Building Connections
Our purpose in sponsoring 506 wristbands for this event was twofold:
- To raise awareness: Our wristbands represent a global call to support coffee professionals in need and give them a stronger voice.
- To foster connections: By sharing our wristbands, we aimed to bring the coffee community in China closer together, inspiring collaboration and mutual support.
While other sponsors had their logos prominently displayed, our sponsorship stood apart. Our wristbands were not just promotional items; they were gifts symbolizing unity and encouragement, shared with everyone involved in the competition.
The Value of Our Contribution
The 506 wristbands we provided are valued at $5 each in retail, amounting to a total contribution of $2,530. While we typically offer these wristbands at $2 to charity partners, their true value lies in the message they carry and the connections they inspire.
Reflecting on Our Role
You might wonder: should we calculate our contribution based on the retail value of the wristbands? Transparency is at the core of everything we do, and we want to ensure our efforts are accurately represented. Using the retail value highlights the significance of our sponsorship and aligns with how other organizations report contributions. However, we also recognize the importance of acknowledging the difference between retail and partner pricing.
Special Thanks
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Xiaoya for facilitating this opportunity and to everyone who participated in the event. Together, we are making a difference in the coffee community, one wristband at a time.