Just as there are two main kinds of coffee, Arabica and Robusta, there are two main methods of coffee cultivation, sun- grown and shade-grown. Shade-grown coffee is the more traditional approach that mimics the natural way coffee used to grow, underneath a forest canopy. Beginning in the 1970’s the idea of growing coffee in full sun was introduced to coffee farmers with the intent to increase production.

Danilo Rodriguez brings his coffee growing roots, industry knowledge, and passion for DLG to the role of Executive Director. Since 2014, he’s held various positions within De La Gente, allowing him to grasp the inner workings of the larger coffee industry. Playing a dynamic role in DLG’s past and present, he is excited to lead the organization into this new chapter.