In the world of specialty coffee, there are tales that transcend the simple act of brewing a cup. In this Gulfood podcast interview, we delve into the captivating journey of Mokhtar al Khanshali, the founder and CEO of Port of Mokha, a man whose pursuit of purpose led him on an extraordinary path, intertwining heritage, passion, and a quest for social impact.

 

The Journey of Identity:

 

Al Khanshali's story begins with the timeless struggle to find one's place in the world. As a third-culture kid growing up in America, he grappled with the dichotomy of his Yemeni roots and his love for American pop culture. The complexities of identity haunted him, echoing the sentiments familiar to many young individuals searching for their role in an ever-evolving world.

 

Amidst the clash of cultures, al Khanshali found solace in history. He recognised the rich tapestry of Muslim contributions to science, art, and medicine, inspiring a sense of pride in his heritage. Yet, the journey towards his true calling was far from straightforward, as he faced familial expectations rooted in the immigrant dream of professional success—doctor, lawyer, or engineer.

 

Initially treating coffee as, a mere hobby, al Khanshali's perspective shifted when he discovered the potential for social impact within the specialty coffee industry. The idea of transparency and traceability resonated with his aspirations for sustainable change, leading him to believe that this journey could be a catalyst for something greater than traditional NGO work.

 

Transitioning from a background in non-profit work focused on immigration, al Khanshali embarked on an exploration of the world of coffee. Despite initial doubts and the lack of prior knowledge, he embraced the challenge, driven by a passion for social change and a profound love for the beverage itself.

 

 

The Butterfly Effect:

 

A pivotal moment unfolded on a seemingly ordinary day, October 1st, 2013. A friend's text about a statue of an Arab Yemeni man savouring coffee outside al Khanshali's workplace set the stage for a transformative journey. It was a serendipitous encounter that propelled him into the intricate world of coffee, much like the butterfly effect mentioned in Lord of the Rings—where a simple message can redirect the course of one's life.

 

The Birth of Port of Mokha & The Path of Learning about Coffee:

 

Al Khanshali's journey into coffee wasn't just a personal quest; it became a voyage through the history, poetry, and literature surrounding this sacred beverage. His exploration unearthed a world vastly different from the contemporary, commodified view of coffee—a world filled with thieves, poets, and Sufi masters.

 

The narrative took an academic turn with the recommendation of a book, "The Merchant Houses of Mocha" by Dr. Nancy, which opened the door to a wealth of knowledge about coffee's origins and its historical significance. Al Khanshali's unconventional stance on coffee's birthplace, asserting it began in Ethiopia, adds a layer of complexity to his journey, challenging traditional narratives.

 

Al Khanshali shares the evolution of his coffee operations, from establishing his own farm, Al Khanshali Estate, to collaborating with local and international roasters through Port of Mokha. The journey spans collaborations with roasters in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, reaching as far as Asia and the United States. He teases a new brand on the horizon, promising a continuation of the inspiring coffee experiences from the past.

 

As we sip our daily brew, let's reflect on the profound odyssey of Mokhtar al Khanshali. His story serves as a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and the pursuit of purpose. In this episode you unravel more chapters of his coffee-infused saga, exploring the birth of Port Of Mokha, the impact of his endeavours on the global coffee landscape and much more. Tune into the full episode today.