My name is Masha, and I am a coffee professional based in Los Angeles, California. With everything happening in the world, it’s really hard for me to ask for help - but today, I have no choice but to reach out to my community and friends for support.

Two weeks ago, I received devastating news. My immigration case, which has been pending for ten years, was suddenly closed and transferred to immigration court for "removal proceedings". I never received any notice or paperwork from the court. The hearing was scheduled six months ago, but I only just found out - leaving me six weeks to find a strong immigration lawyer and fight for my right to stay in the U.S., which has become my home.

I came here legally in 2014 and have always stayed legally. I’ve paid my taxes every year. My son was born here. Over the past decade, I’ve built a life and career that I’m deeply proud of - one rooted in hard work, resilience, and community.

I started in 2015 as a baby barista earning minimum wage and, through perseverance and passion, grew into a national coffee professional working for one of the largest and most respected wholesale roasters in the U.S. I also became a World Certified Coffee Competition Judge, and for the last ten years, I’ve helped hundreds of people grow in their craft through teaching, mentoring, and coaching them, and connecting them with opportunities in the industry.

I’ve helped countless cafes open, supported many hospitality businesses through education and consulting - always doing my best to offer not only proffessional guidance but emotional support as well.

For the past ten seasons, I’ve volunteered as a U.S. Brewers Cup Judge and currently serve as both a committee member and Head Judge for the U.S. Brewers Cup Competition. I truly believe that the work I do helps strengthen and uplift the coffee community that I love so much.

The coffee industry has given me a sense of belonging, purpose, and community. It’s through this world that I found my voice, my confidence, and so many of my closest friends. This community has always been about people helping people - and now, I’m the one in need of that help.

As for why my case was suddenly closed - I still don’t have answers. But I’ve learned that under the current system, some cases are randomly closed or shifted just to clear backlogs. Unfortunately, that means real people’s lives and futures are being thrown into chaos. My first court hearing is scheduled for December 17, and while it’s technically just the beginning of the process, it’s terrifying to face what happens in immigration court today.

I’m raising funds to hire an immigration lawyer who can stand by me and represent my case properly. I had a deeply traumatizing experience in court years ago (in a civil matter), and I promised myself that I would never walk into a courtroom again without proper legal support.

A good lawyer could make the difference between losing everything and protecting the life, career, and home I’ve worked so hard to build. Every dollar raised will go directly toward legal fees and case preparation.

These next few months will be very difficult for me and my family, but we’re trying to stay strong. My son, Stefan, is terrified that I could be taken away from him. And I’m terrified of losing the life I’ve built through a decade of hard work, contribution, and love for Los Angeles and my wonderful coffee community.

My partner Josh, my son Stefan, and I are asking for your help - whether it’s through donations, sharing this campaign, or simply keeping us in your thoughts. Every act of support means the world to us right now.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being part of the community that has shaped who I am today. I am endlessly grateful for your kindness and hope to continue giving back to this incredible community that has given me so much.