Sarina Prabasi

Sarina Prabasi is Co-Founder of the award winning Buunni Coffee with four cafes in Northern Manhattan and a roastery and co-roasting space in the South Bronx. Sarina and her Co-Founder and husband, Elias Gurmu started Buunni when they moved from Addis Ababa to New York City in 2011.

Sarina's journey is marked by a commitment to global social justice and sustainability, with a career in international development, including as the CEO of WaterAid America.

Sarina is also the author of a memoir, The Coffeehouse Resistance: Brewing Hope in Desperate Times, published in 2019. With a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to social justice, Sarina inspires and shapes conversations on business, social impact, and the power of community. Sarina also served on the board of directors of the Specialty Coffee Association from 2020-2023.