In the heart of Burnaby, a dedicated coffee enthusiast is fostering community spirit through his innovative pop-up coffee shop, Boz Üy Coffee. Tolonbek Karpekov, a longtime Metro Vancouver resident, has created a welcoming space for coffee lovers, offering complimentary beverages and baked treats from his studio apartment.
During a recent gathering, Karpekov welcomed over a dozen attendees—friends and newcomers alike—to enjoy his homemade lattes, macchiatos, and pastries. He explained to Daily Hive that these events extend beyond serving coffee; they are about building connections.
“I initiated these gatherings to unite friends, colleagues, and even strangers, delivering an authentic coffee shop experience featuring high-quality brews and curated non-coffee options,” he shared.
By day, Karpekov works in the public sector, while also balancing a barista position at a popular coffee chain. His commitment to social justice and community support fuels his aspirations in the coffee industry.
“My future goal is to establish a coffee shop focused on social enterprise, aimed at providing job opportunities for individuals facing challenges and creating a venue for various community activities,” Karpekov elaborated. “The essence of Boz Üy Coffee embodies my desire to create a meaningful impact through the love of coffee.”
Reflecting his Kyrgyz heritage, Karpekov describes Boz Üy Coffee as “coffee with purpose.” The term “boz üy” translates to “yurt,” symbolizing warmth and hospitality.
These monthly pop-up events are free of charge, though guests are encouraged to bring donations for the local food bank. Interested participants can secure a spot by requesting attendance via Instagram, as space is limited.
The recent pop-up event showcased Karpekov’s vision, featuring inviting decor and tailored menus, enhancing the experience as guests awaited their custom-crafted drinks.