IWD CAITY: SALTI READS
This International Women's Day, Paradox Coffee Roasters is celebrating the incredible women we are proud to partner with across our coffee community, from café owners and operators to the dedicated women serving their communities through The Salvation Army.
At Paradox, coffee has always been about people, and today we’re shining a light on the women who lead, inspire, and power many of the spaces where our coffee is shared. They are the leaders, creators, and community builders who bring coffee culture to life every day, and we are incredibly proud to work alongside you. You are truly special to our community.
Caity is the co-owner of Salti Reads, a cosy beachside café and bookstore in Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast. A self-described bookworm with over 13 years in hospitality, Caity followed her passion for coffee to create a space where great books, great coffee, and community come together. Through Salti Reads, she has built a welcoming place powered by connection, positivity, and an inspiring team of women.
Get to know Caity a little more below in our chat.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us where you work?
My name is Caity. I’m a 32 year old bookworm who co-owns my dream cosy beachside café and bookstore, Salti Reads, in Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast with my partner.
What inspired you to start working in coffee or hospitality?
I’ve worked in the hospitality industry for 13 years, owning and operating cafés and restaurants over the years, but I found that my interests and passion really sat more around coffee than food. I was finally able to step away from the food side of the industry when I found the perfect space in Caloundra to open my dream bookstore. I thought, of course it has to serve coffee too.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
For many, it’s a day to celebrate the achievements of women, but it’s also a moment to reflect on the ongoing struggles for equality, whether that’s in pay, representation, safety, or opportunity. As I’ve grown into the woman I am today, I’ve really acknowledged my own journey, my growth, my independence, the challenges I’ve overcome, and my overall resilience as a woman. Every day I try my best, as a woman in this economy, to empower others, support them, and take any action I can, whether it’s big or small.
Who has inspired or supported you most in your life or career?
My mum is honestly my biggest inspiration and always my number one supporter. She’s the one who is always there cheering me on and believing in me even when I don’t believe in myself. She’s so strong and amazing, handling everything life throws at her without giving up. Her work ethic is truly inspiring. She is a strong woman who gave so much to her career but never let it get in the way of anything else in life, especially her family, and she has now successfully retired, which is amazing. To me, she shows what being a strong woman really means, not just being tough but being kind, caring, and always looking out for the people you love. I’m so lucky to have her and she makes me want to be the best I can be.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
The people I meet, hands down. That’s what makes it so special. There’s something really unique about the community we’ve built here at Salti, and honestly, I’ve never loved coming to work this much in my career. We have such an incredible and inspiring team of women, and I genuinely love every single one of them. I also love meeting all the different people who walk through our doors. The kindness, respect, and positivity inside Salti is unlike anything I’ve experienced before. Every day our customers feel more like family, and that’s what makes this place so amazing. Not to toot my own horn, but it really is such a special place we’ve created.
What’s something you’ve learned along your journey so far?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along my journey is the importance of independence and taking ownership of your own path. Early on I often held back my voice or relied too heavily on one approach or situation. I realised that real growth comes from building confidence, making decisions for yourself, and being willing to step into new opportunities.
What’s a moment in your career that made you feel proud?
Opening this store was 100 percent the best decision I’ve ever made. Salti has truly changed my life. Loving the career I’ve chosen and having the freedom to shape it on my own terms makes everything worth it. On top of that, the community I’ve built here makes this place incredibly special to me.
What advice would you give to other women starting out in the industry?
Just go for it. It might sound reckless, but honestly, why not? Take the plunge because you absolutely can. Don’t spend years overthinking or waiting for the perfect moment. Trust yourself, believe in what you can create, and own who you are. Surround yourself with people who support and inspire you, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way. Be your own inspiration, stay true to your vision, and let your passion and hard work shine through in everything you do. You’ll be amazed at what you’re capable of when you take that first step.