LEAP Coffee Roasters, a beloved small-batch coffee roastery in Oklahoma City known for its dedication to exceptional coffee and support of the local creative community, is excited to announce a new chapter in its journey. Founders Kari Hirst Starkey and Eric Starkey have officially passed the torch to their employees and new owners Kiona Wooton Millirons, Hannah Mhamedi and Imad Mhamedi. Kiona is a coffee roaster and an artist and has been involved in the local arts community for over 20 years. Hannah has been in the coffee industry for 21 years. Imad, who is a mechanical whiz, moved to Oklahoma in 2020 from Morocco to marry the love of his life.Since its founding, LEAP Coffee Roasters has been a cornerstone in the Oklahoma City coffee scene, celebrated not only for sourcing and roasting the finest beans but also for its deep connection to the city’s vibrant arts community through its signature Artist Series Coffee. Artists receive a percentage of sales of their personally curated coffee beans. LEAP artists have received a combined total of over $66,000 over the last eight years. Under the leadership of Kiona, Hannah, and Imad, LEAP will continue to uphold its commitment to quality, creativity and community while exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation.“We are incredibly grateful for the foundation Kari and Eric built with LEAP”, said Kiona Wooton Millirons. “Their passion for great coffee and community has inspired us, and we’re excited to carry forward their vision while bringing our own ideas to the table. We’re looking forward to deepening relationships with our loyal customers and connecting with new ones as we continue to grow.”As a women and minority-owned business, LEAP Coffee Roasters will remain dedicated to fostering inclusivity and creativity, both in its products and community engagement. The new ownership team brings a shared passion for coffee, entrepreneurship, and local collaboration, ensuring that LEAP continues to be a space where quality coffee meets artistic expression.Kari and Eric Starkey expressed their confidence in the new owners: "We're so proud to be able to pass the LEAP torch to such a kind and capable team. So many things had to go just right for it to happen in the way that it did and, looking back, every single thing was a gift. We can't wait to see what Hannah, Imad and Kiona are going to do next.”LEAP Coffee Roasters invites the community to celebrate this transition at an upcoming meet-and-greet event with the new owners on Saturday, April 5 from 10am – 12pm.