By #open-tea-initiative
The Channel #open-tea-initiative is exactly what it sounds like, an open space where tea is shared, explored, and occasionally examined in ways that feel both thoughtful and refreshingly unfiltered. Within this channel, you’ll find a collection of @programmes that run in structured cycles. It’s about opening up the journey of tea, from how a single leaf begins its life to how it eventually arrives in your cup. Along the way, we talk, question, and exchange ideas rather freely. Nothing feels hidden or overly polished, which, if we’re honest, makes everything far more interesting.
@from-leaf-to-cup
#open-tea-initiative is the wider Channel, and as part of this Channel, the programme @from-leaf-to-cup is a delightful unfolding of becoming tea. This programme takes you on a complete journey, following tea from its very first moment on the plant all the way to the final process of becoming Tea. What makes this programme rather special is that it doesn’t treat tea as just a finished product. It treats tea as a process, a journey, and occasionally even a bit of a personality.
#Channels and @Programmes
❁ There are eight #channels, each offering a minimum of six @programmes. Every @programme runs on a biweekly basis, meaning each #channel takes at least twelve weeks to complete. That said, conversations within each #channel never truly end, discussions remain open, active, and evolving at all times. There is no fixed end to this programme, and perhaps that is part of its appeal. Tea itself is not something that can be fully understood in a single sitting. It evolves, and so does your perception of it. This programme simply offers a place to begin, or perhaps to continue, depending on where you are. Either way, it is a rather pleasant journey to be part of. ❁
Topics that Spark a bit of Curiosity
❁ The programme includes a range of 9 discussion topics, carefully chosen to encourage both learning and conversation. These topics are not simply presented and left behind. They are explored, discussed, questioned, and occasionally debated in a rather civilised manner. Some may feel familiar, while others might introduce entirely new perspectives. And every so often, a topic leads to a moment of quiet realisation, the sort where you pause and think, “well, that’s rather interesting.” Those moments, we believe, are where the real value lies. See below discussion topics for @from-leaf-to-cup. ❁
@from-leaf-to-cup - Discussions
- Topic #1 - Cultivating the Tea Plant
- Topic #2 - Plucking and Harvesting
- Topic #3 - Sorting and Handling Fresh Leaves
- Topic #4 - Withering the Leaf
- Topic #5 - Rolling and Shaping
- Topic #6 - Oxidation and Transformation
- Topic #7 - Drying and Finishing the Tea
- Topic #8 - Branding, and Storage
- Topic #9 - The Perfect Brew
What we’re Quietly working Towards
Now, while everything feels relaxed on the surface, there is a clear intention behind it all. The aim is to deepen understanding, broaden perspectives, and create a space where tea is explored not just as a drink, but as a cultural and creative medium. It’s about building knowledge, yes, but also about building connection. Over time, participants develop confidence, awareness, and a slightly sharper sense of curiosity. And perhaps most importantly, they begin to see tea in ways they hadn’t quite considered before.
How we Plan to get There, Together
We approach this collectively, rather than individually. Learning happens through discussion, shared experiences, and the occasional unexpected insight from someone else in the group. Sessions are hosted online, allowing for flexible participation, and conversations often continue beyond scheduled times. There is no strict boundary that says “this is where learning stops.” Instead, it flows naturally. Everyone contributes in their own way, whether actively or quietly. And together, that creates something far richer than a one-directional learning experience.
Why it might be Worth your While
You might be wondering whether this is worth your time, and that’s a perfectly reasonable question. The answer, quite simply, depends on what you’re looking for. If you enjoy thoughtful conversations, gradual learning, and a slightly more meaningful engagement with tea, then you’ll likely find it worthwhile. There is no pressure to perform or to know everything. Just a space to explore, to question, and occasionally to be pleasantly surprised by what you discover along the way.
The Practical Bit: Costs & Fees
And now, the practical side of things, which we promise to keep straightforward. Some programmes within the channel are offered free of charge, while others may require a fee depending on their structure and content. You’re always welcome to explore what suits you best. There is no obligation to commit to everything. Simply choose what interests you. The aim is to keep things accessible while still offering depth where it matters. A balanced approach, we think, and one that feels fair for everyone involved.
Order of Tea
1: #Channels and @Programmes
( now this is where things become properly organised in a very relaxed, tea – filled sort of way )
Joining our #Channels on Discord is, thankfully, far simpler than it might sound. Once you express your interest and receive your invite, you’ll find yourself inside a rather lively space with eight main channels: #open-tea-initiative, #becoming, #innovation, #tea-master, #teacast, #teanity, #tea-tasting, and #teaware. Each channel hosts six or more programmes, all running in 15-day cycles, though discussions often continue far beyond that. By joining a channel, you gain access to everything within it, allowing you to explore, learn, and exchange ideas with fellow tea lovers, professionals, and even tea farmers. Complete all programmes within a channel, and you’ll receive a certificate endorsed by Order of Tea and, where applicable, an official Chinese government body. We are also working towards broader accreditation across both Eastern and Western institutions, so yes, it’s all becoming rather official.
1: #Channels and @Programmes
(now this is where things become properly organised in a very relaxed, tea – filled sort of way) – Joining Order of Tea on Discord is, thankfully, far simpler than it might sound. Once you express your interest and receive your invite, you’ll find yourself inside a rather lively space with eight main channels: #open-tea-initiative, #becoming, #innovation, #tea-master, #teacast, #teanity, #tea-tasting, and #teaware. Each channel hosts six or more programmes, all running in 15-day cycles, though discussions often continue far beyond that. By joining a channel, you gain access to everything within it, allowing you to explore, learn, and exchange ideas with fellow tea lovers, professionals, and even tea farmers. Complete all programmes within a channel, and you’ll receive a certificate endorsed by Order of Tea and, where applicable, an official Chinese government body. We are also working towards broader accreditation across both Eastern and Western institutions, so yes, it’s all becoming rather official.
2: Joining the Conversation on Discord
( invitation, onboarding, and the lively nature of discussion )
Once you’ve shared your interest with us, you’ll receive a friendly invitation to join our channels on Discord, where conversations tend to flow rather generously and, if we’re honest, rarely stop entirely. It’s where ideas are exchanged, questions appear out of nowhere, and someone inevitably says something unexpectedly brilliant. All you need to do is join, settle in, and perhaps bring a cup of tea along. It does make the experience feel far more appropriate, after all. Nothing complicated at all, we promise. It’s all rather pleasantly simple.
2. Joining the Conversation on Discord
(invitation, onboarding, and the lively nature of discussion) – Once you’ve shared your interest with us, you’ll receive a friendly invitation to join our channels on Discord, where conversations tend to flow rather generously and, if we’re honest, rarely stop entirely. It’s where ideas are exchanged, questions appear out of nowhere, and someone inevitably says something unexpectedly brilliant. All you need to do is join, settle in, and perhaps bring a cup of tea along. In the end, it does make the experience feel far more appropriate. Nothing complicated at all, we promise. It’s all rather pleasantly simple.
3: Programme Schedule and Structure
( how the sessions run, timing, and intake flow )
Each programme runs every two weeks, which means there’s always something gently unfolding. You’ll be placed into the next available intake, so no long waiting around wondering when things might begin. Sessions take place at a rather civilised time to be discussing tea, and schedule will be announced in Discord Channels. It’s structured enough to keep things moving, yet relaxed enough that it never feels overwhelming. A pleasant balance, really.
3. Programme Schedule and Structure
(how the session run, timing, and intake flow) – Each programme runs every two weeks, which means there’s always something gently unfolding. You’ll be placed into the next available intake, so no long waiting around wondering when things might begin. Sessions take place at a rather civilised time to be discussing tea, and schedule will be announced in Discord Channels. It’s structured enough to keep things moving, yet relaxed enough that it never feels overwhelming. A pleasant balance, really.
4: Flexible Learning and Catching Up
( missed sessions, recordings, and rejoining with ease )
Now, life does have a habit of interrupting even the best intentions. Whatever reason you may have, if you happen to miss a session, there’s absolutely no need to panic. Recordings will be available, so you can catch up at your own pace and quietly slip back into the conversation as if you never left. No dramatic entrances required. The discussions and channels remain open and ongoing, which means you can rejoin whenever it suits you, without feeling like you’ve missed the entire story. And truthfully, we rather enjoy when people return with fresh perspectives.
4. Flexible Learning and Catching Up
(missed sessions, recordings, and rejoining with ease) – Now, life does have a habit of interrupting even the best intentions. Whatever reason you may have, if you happen to miss a session, there’s absolutely no need to panic. Recordings will be available, so you can catch up at your own pace and quietly slip back into the conversation as if you never left. No dramatic entrances required. The discussions and channels remain open and ongoing, which means you can rejoin whenever it suits you, without feeling like you’ve missed the entire story. And truthfully, we rather enjoy when people return with fresh perspectives.
5: Programme Duration and Certification
( 15 – days journey, participation, and certification details )
Each programme itself runs over 15 days, though you’re free to step in and out as needed. We do encourage you to stay the course, of course, but we understand that occasional detours happen. Should you complete the full journey, and resist disappearing midway for an extended “tea break”, you will receive a certificate recognising your participation. This may be issued by Order of Tea and, where applicable, endorsed by an official government body, which does sound rather impressive, doesn’t it.
5. Duration & Certification
(15 – days journey, participation, and certification details) – Each programme itself runs over 15 days, though you’re free to step in and out as needed. We do encourage you to stay the course, of course, but we understand that occasional detours happen. Should you complete the full journey, and resist disappearing midway for an extended “tea break”, you will receive a certificate recognising your participation. This may be issued by Order of Tea and, where applicable, endorsed by an official government body, which does sound rather impressive, doesn’t it.
6: Ongoing Learning and In – Person Opportunity
( continuous learning that end when you say so, and in person opportunity )
As part of the #Channel, this programme is designed as an ongoing experience rather than a one-off event. It continues without a strict ending, allowing conversations and ideas to develop naturally over time. While the core sessions are theory-based and delivered online, there are also opportunities for more hands-on, in-person experiences during harvesting seasons. These vary each year, which keeps things interesting. If you’re keen, simply let us know, and we’ll keep you gently informed.
6. No Strict Ending – online / offline
(continuous learning that end when you say so, and in person opportunity) – As part of the #Channel, this programme is designed as an ongoing experience rather than a one-off event. It continues without a strict ending, allowing conversations and ideas to develop naturally over time. While the core sessions are theory-based and delivered online, there are also opportunities for more hands-on, in-person experiences during harvesting seasons. These vary each year, which keeps things interesting. If you’re keen, simply let us know, and we’ll keep you gently informed.
7: From Conversation to Podcast Platforms
( let’s give it that slightly exciting “we’re going public” feeling )
What begins as a conversation does not simply stay within the room. Selected Teacast sessions may be carefully curated and shared across podcast platforms, allowing your ideas, reflections, and tea stories to travel a little further than expected. It’s a rather lovely way of extending the experience beyond the group, giving others the chance to listen, learn, and occasionally nod along in agreement. Of course, everything is handled thoughtfully, and you’ll always know what is being shared and where.
7. From Conversation to Podcast
(let’s give it that slightly exciting “we’re going public” feeling) – What begins as a conversation does not simply stay within the room. Selected Teacast sessions may be carefully curated and shared across podcast platforms, allowing your ideas, reflections, and tea stories to travel a little further than expected. It’s a rather lovely way of extending the experience beyond the group, giving others the chance to listen, learn, and occasionally nod along in agreement. Of course, everything is handled thoughtfully, and you’ll always know what is being shared and where.
8: Trial Access and Refund Policy
( try – before – commit, refund reassurance, and overall ease of participation )
And finally, a small reassurance, because we do like to keep things fair and friendly. You’re welcome to try the programme for few sessions before deciding whether it’s quite your cup of tea. If it’s not, no hard feelings at all. We’ll arrange a refund (if any) without any complicated questions. The only thing to note is that cross-border refunds may take a few days to process. Simple, straightforward, and entirely civilised, just as it should be.
8: Trial Access and Refund Policy
(try – before – commit, refund reassurance, and overall ease of participation) – And finally, a small reassurance, because we do like to keep things fair and friendly. You’re welcome to try the programme for few sessions before deciding whether it’s quite your cup of tea. If it’s not, no hard feelings at all. We’ll arrange a refund without any complicated questions. The only thing to note is that cross-border refunds may take a few days to process. Simple, straightforward, and entirely civilised, just as it should be.
Curious what we’re brewing? This is a simple way to let us know if you’re interested or if you’d rather give us a firm ( and slightly brutal ) no, we’ll survive, promise. No pressure, no commitment. Go on, leave us a little hint and when something rather lovely starts brewing, you’ll be the first to hear about it. Curious about what we’re brewing? Your EOI is a simple way to let us know if you might like to join our #Channels, whether on Discord or in person. And if your answer is a firm, even slightly brutal no, we completely understand and promise we’ll survive. There’s no pressure and absolutely no commitment. Just leave us a little hint, and when something rather lovely starts brewing, you’ll be the first to know.
#Open-Tea-Initiative
@PROGRAMMES FEATURED IN THIS CHANNEL-
The Kettle's On - Let's begin this little tea journey together. Your cup's await! So do we.
-
What's Brewing - Find out what we've been quietly preparing. Its your cup of tea for sure.
-
Tea in its Forms - Discover the tea varieties and how wonderfully diverse they can be.
-
Making of Teas - Getting to know how tea is made from Leaf to Craft, Step by Step.
-
From Leaf to Cup - Fellowship of the amazing Tea Leaf from Plant to Cup. Yes, the whole Trip!
-
The Art of Teaware - Finding the Vessel that truly suits your Cup of Tea. Not anything.
-
Mastery of Tea Art - Become Tea Art Master and refine your skills with elegance and ease.
-
Becoming Tea Sommelier - Step into expertise, a deeper world of Tea knowledge.
-
Creating Tea Brand - Shape your own Tea Story and Identity. Yes, no doubt you can do it.
-
Define Tea Ritual - Create a Tea Ritual from the scratch that feels entirely your own.
-
Sharing via Teacast - Tea without Border! Share ideas, stories, and voices in Tea.
#Open-Tea-Initiative
@PROGRAMMES FEATURED IN THIS CHANNEL-
The Kettle's On - Let's begin this little tea journey together. Your cup's await! So do we.
-
What's Brewing - Find out what we've been quietly preparing. Its your cup of tea for sure.
-
Tea in its Forms - Discover the tea varieties and how wonderfully diverse they can be.
-
Making of Teas - Getting to know how tea is made from Leaf to Craft, Step by Step.
-
From Leaf to Cup - Fellowship of the amazing Tea Leaf from Plant to Cup. Yes, the whole Trip!
-
The Art of Teaware - Finding the Vessel that truly suits your Cup of Tea. Not anything.
-
Mastery of Tea Art - Become Tea Art Master and refine your skills with elegance and ease.
-
Becoming Tea Sommelier - Step into expertise, a deeper world of Tea knowledge.
-
Creating Tea Brand - Shape your own Tea Story and Identity. Yes, no doubt you can do it.
-
Define Tea Ritual - Create a Tea Ritual from the scratch that feels entirely your own.
-
Sharing via Teacast - Tea without Border! Share ideas, stories, and voices in Tea.
#Open-Tea-Initiative
@PROGRAMMES FEATURED IN THIS CHANNEL-
The Kettle's On - Let's begin this little tea journey together. Your cup's await! So do we.
-
What's Brewing - Find out what we've been quietly preparing. Its your cup of tea for sure.
-
Tea in its Forms - Discover the tea varieties and how wonderfully diverse they can be.
-
Making of Teas - Getting to know how tea is made from Leaf to Craft, Step by Step.
-
From Leaf to Cup - Fellowship of the amazing Tea Leaf from Plant to Cup. Yes, the whole Trip!
-
The Art of Teaware - Finding the Vessel that truly suits your Cup of Tea. Not anything.
-
Mastery of Tea Art - Become Tea Art Master and refine your skills with elegance and ease.
-
Becoming Tea Sommelier - Step into expertise, a deeper world of Tea knowledge.
-
Creating Tea Brand - Shape your own Tea Story and Identity. Yes, no doubt you can do it.
-
Define Tea Ritual - Create a Tea Ritual from the scratch that feels entirely your own.
-
Sharing via Teacast - Tea without Border! Share ideas, stories, and voices in Tea.