Rina, head of sustainability and social impact – Malaysia 

Rina started as a part-time barista in college before taking on different roles in marketing, public affairs, digital strategy and social impact. In 2022, she helped launch the Starbucks Upcycled Flavorlock Pouch project, where Starbucks works with local seamstresses to help turn whole bean coffee packaging into small lined handbags, giving them a second life. Not only does this save potential trash from the landfill, but for every pouch sold, Starbucks donates money to the YWCA in Kuala Lumpur.  

It is more than just coffee. I am very fortunate to love what I do and be presented with many interesting opportunities. At Starbucks, every day is an ongoing learning journey and it’s always exciting for me! Inspired by many partners, communities and NGOs that I worked with, my team and I are happy to pay it forward by strategizing sustainable social impact programs that are able to empower and create pathways to the beneficiaries. While it has its challenges, it is undoubtedly a very fulfilling career.