Baristas welcomed again in Ilava prison: The main star was the matcha ritual

After a year, baristas from the Vocational High School of Trade and Services in Prievidza visited the inmates in Ilava again. Led by educator Anna Králiková and two skilled second-year students, they followed up on topics regarding the proper preparation of espresso and its alternatives in prison conditions. The main attraction, however, was the traditional Japanese drink, matcha.

The students demonstrated the traditional way of preparing green tea using a bamboo whisk (chasen) and explained its characteristic properties. The preparation itself requires precision, patience, and focus – qualities that are significant not only when preparing a drink, but also in acquiring work habits and daily self-discipline.

The inmates thus had the opportunity not only to discover a less familiar alternative to coffee but also to gain insight into the work of young people who are gradually learning their future profession. The meeting naturally opened up the topic of work skills, thoroughness, and a responsible approach to work.

The visit was, therefore, not just a demonstration of preparing an unconventional drink. It allowed the inmates to learn new methods and see that behind a seemingly simple activity lies a certain level of skill, precision, and patience. These are exactly the qualities that have their place not only in preparing coffee or tea but also in daily working life.