Cofandi vending machines are your 24/7 coffee solution at Concordia

For civil engineering student Yann Kedja, the inspiration for an on-campus coffee vending machine struck during a snowstorm.

“It was around 7 p.m., and the Starbucks in the library building had already closed,” recalls Kedja, who is studying at the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science.

“Not wanting to brave the harsh conditions outside, I dreamed of having a coffee machine available at any time in the building.”

What began as a late-night wish has become a reality with Cofandi, an innovative service offering Concordia students hot coffee around the clock. The name Cofandi combines “coffee and distribution” while also including a personal touch — “Andy,” Kedja’s nickname among friends and family.

A startup born from student life

Kedja designed Cofandi with one goal in mind: making student life a little easier.

“Student life is demanding,” he explains. “I wanted to create something that would help, providing excellent coffee service that’s accessible 24/7. Each cup takes just about a minute to prepare, and the machines serve Concordia’s Stingers Roast sustainable coffee.”

Launching a startup while managing a rigorous civil engineering program wasn’t without its challenges. But Kedja credits his schoolwork with giving him the tools to succeed.

“My field of study taught me the perseverance needed to tackle complex problems,” he says. “If I could solve them in class, I knew I could solve them in real life.”

Concordia support

Kedja is quick to recognize the role Concordia played in Cofandi’s early success.

“I reached out to Oliver De Volpi, Concordia’s food services manager, who was instrumental in supporting my project,” Kedja explains. “He advocated for me with school administrators and helped identify high-demand locations.”

Today, Cofandi boasts five operational machines, but Kedja wants to continue moving forward.

“After the first quarter, it became clear more machines were needed to meet demand. The current locations aren’t as well-known yet, so creating awareness and expanding to other buildings will help students even more,” he says.

Cofandi machines can be found on the Sir George Williams Campus, in the following locations: 

• Henry F. Hall (H) Building on the seventh floor
• Visual Arts (VA) Building on the second floor
• John Molson (MB) Building on second floor
• Faubourg (FB) Building on the ground floor
• J.W. McConnell (LB) Building on the ground floor

The LB building location is the latest addition, situated in a newly developed seating and dining area recently renovated by Facilities Management. With new furniture, enhanced lighting and a self-service station, the updated space provides an ideal home for Cofandi’s 24/7 coffee machine.

To keep up with growing demand, Kedja has also partnered with like-minded individuals who share his vision. “Together, we can accomplish so much more,” he adds.

Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

For students dreaming of starting their own ventures, Kedja shares simple yet powerful advice:

“The only obstacle to achieving your goals is yourself. If you believe in your project, go for it. Make mistakes — they’re the best way to learn.”

With Kedja’s unwavering determination, strong support system and clear vision, Cofandi is poised to become an essential part of student life at Concordia and a testament to the impact one idea can have on an entire community.

Check out Cofandi's instagram, or find out more about food and dining at Concordia.