2017 Competitors

Australia
Aaron Shin
Short Black Cafe

Originally from Korea, I studied architecture and joined the Korean military before discovering my passion for coffee. I came to Australia for a holiday three years ago and immediately fell in love with its coffee culture. I now call Melbourne home and work at Short Black Café. I can’t to represent Australia at the World Latte Art Championships in Budapest.

baristaaaronshin

instagambaristaaaronshin

How did you get started in coffee?

I studied architecture at university in Korea while completing military service, but it was wasn’t for me. Instead, I started reading different books and found one about baristas and latte art. I thought it was really unique, so I gave it a go. I quickly learnt it wasn’t as easy as I first thought.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

 – Australian Specialty Coffee Association (ASCA) 2017 Southern Region Latte Art Champion

– ASCA 2017 Australia Pura Latte Art Champion

What is the most unusual vessel you've poured latte art into?

 Once, I poured latte art into my left hand. It was really hard to do it, but really fun.

What is your secret to making great latte art?

 Even if you practice pouring 1000 cups of latte art every day, without skill and knowledge, it won’t work. You need to appreciate the basic foundations of coffee first.  When you struggle to produce a desired latte art pattern, or don’t place well in a latte art competition, always learn from the experience. It’s important that you assess what you could have done differently in order to progress.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Besides coffee, I love beer.  I’m also interested in tattoos, so I’m thinking of getting a beer tattoo on my arm.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

 I’m not really sure where I’ll be in five years, but I hope I will a successful barista and businessman. After I finish the WLAC I would like to participate in other competitions around the world to gain more experience and perspective on my coffee career.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

I really would like to thank the following people for their generous help and support: to Veneziano Coffee Roasters, and its staff members including WLAC Judge Lance Brown, Roaster Pat Connolly, and Head Trainer Jade Jennings Nick Percy, WLAC 2015 Caleb Cha, and my Shortblack Cafè’s Owners Frank and Angelo thank you for teaching me how to prepare for competitors and your continuous assistance. Words can not express who appreciative I am.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

 I’m really excited to be in Budapest! I never imagined I’d be in this position when I started making coffee. Now I am going to Budapest as an Australia Latte Art Champion. It is a huge honor  for me. I am really excited to compete there and tour that beautiful city.

Austria
Benjamin Graf
La Cultura del Caffé

Hey, I’m Benjamin, I’m a Barista trainer from Austria, working for the MUMAC Academy. It’s my third time at the worlds now and I’m really looking forward to compete in Budapest!

passionbarista

instagamBgrafbarista

How did you get started in coffee?

I participated by pure chance at a basic barista course, i was overwhelmed with joy!

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Austrian Latte Art Champion 2014, 2016 & 2017

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

In a sink at Host in Milan.

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Passion and dedication!

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Ice hockey and Kickboxing 🙂

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Maybe on the other side of the judges table… 😀

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Meeting all these coffee professionals again is always very exciting to me.
To meet people that share the same passion like me is awesome!

Belarus
Roma Liakhnovich
“26” Coffee Shop

Hi, my name is Roma. I’m from Belarus. My story as a barista started with a cup of fresh roasted coffee. It was espresso from Ethiopia – sweet, good-balanced, with long aftertaste. I was excited and decided to work excactly with this product. This is how I found my first coffee shop, where my team met. After one year we participated in republican Barista Championship 2015, where I got second prize. There were qualified judges and the performance itself was measured up to world regulations. It was the first event like this in our country, which also became a nice kickstarter for coffee culture in the region. After that we succeeded in opening a coffee shop which focuses on a quality. We order green coffee ourselves and roasted it here. Last national championship brought us (“26” coffee shop) the following prizes: Cup Tasters – 1st place, Latte art – 1st place, Barista Championship – 5th place, Aeropress Championship – 2nd place. I’m really proud for my team and glad to do what I like.

Roma Liakhnovich

instagamromasaven

How did you get started in coffee?

As many of us – drinking it in cafe and pubs. But that wasn’t a real start – that cup of ethiopian coffee changed everything. It was something totally new and unknown. And in that moment I managed with new feelings I got with each sip. And I still explore that.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Belarus Barista Championship 2015 – 2nd place

Latte Art Championship 2017 – 1st place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

V60 Pourover

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Desire and practice

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Coffee takes a huge part of my life, so beside that I enjoy my still life in a city.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I guess, there is no limits in exploring coffee itself and this culture, surely, will quickly develop. I’m really interested in how it will be and see myself as an active “explorer” in this area. Especially, when there is a possibility to get the best coffee from all over the world. Educational part is also important, so a creation of coffee training center is a nice direction.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

I want to thank my team from “26” coffee shop

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

I heard a lot about summer in Budapest, but I want to discover it’s beauty in a calm walk.

Belgium
Jaantje Van Damme
Independent

Hi, I’m Jaantje from Belgium and I’ve been a barista for over a year now. My passion for coffee started 4 years ago while living in England. This year I competed in a coffee competition for the very first time, so I’m excited to be part of the World Latte Art Championship.

jaantje.vandamme

instagamjaantjevandamme

Brazil
Graciele Rodrigues
Black Coffee

Hello, my name is Graci. I have been working with coffee for 8 years and it is an honor to again represent my country in this championship. I am passionate about latte art and I give courses in which I teach my techniques to new baristas.

graciele.rodrigues.319

instagamgraciele.rodrigues.319

How did you get started in coffee?

I got to know the coffee world chance 8 years ago. I feel in love with it and made it my profession.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Brazilian Barista Championship, 2012 – 1st Place

Brazilian Latte Art Championship, 2012, 2013 and 2017 – 1st Place

International Fushan Cup Barista Championship China, 2012 – 5th Place

World Barista Championship, 2013 – 17th Place, Round One

World Latte Art Championship 2012 – 2nd Place

World Latte Art Championship 2013 – 21st Place, Round One

What is your secret to making great latte art?

A lot of training!

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I play the flute.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself giving latte art courses around the world.

China
Fan Liang
Fan Coffee Lab

2017 China Latte Art Champion 2015

Asia-Pacific Professional Coffee Athletics Champion

 

 

France
Mikaël Humbert
Verdenero

Hi I’m Mikaël, 33 originally from Brest in France. Now living in Bordeaux. I was a bartender in Paris, then I discovered the specialty coffee industry and I am now a Barista for 2 years.

instagamMikmika99

How did you get started in coffee?

While visiting Australia in 2007

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

3 Times French Latte Art Championship  (2015 – 6th, 2016 – 4th, 2017 – 1st)

Aeropress Championship 2016 – Not qualified

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Into Tupperware and in The French competition trophy

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Work work work and a hint of love

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Nice craft beers, art, ice hockey

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In my own roastery shop.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Maxicoffee for advice, milk, and the training space. BWT water and more for sponsoring, Verde Neto for support and sponsoring.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Visiting the coffee shops and roastery. Architecture and good. And enjoying myself at The WLAC. 

Germany
Markus Badura
WeinCafé KostBar

MaBa70

instagamlatte_art_markus

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

German Latte Art Championship 2014,   1.place

World Latte Art Championship 2015,   12.place – Round One

International and Tyrolean Championship 2015,   1.place

International and Tyrolean Championship 2016,   2.place

German Latte Art Championship 2016,   1.place

Greece
Michalis Karagiannis
Manor House

Hi, I am Michalis Karagiannis. This is my second time competing in the World Latte Art Championship. I have been working as a barista for the past 7 years. Lately, I am also giving seminars on latte art. As a very social and communicative person, this is something I particularly enjoy every single time. The truth is, I love everything about coffee – taste, aromas, origins, speciality coffee – but especially latte art!x

mixalis.karagiannis.5

instagammichalis_karagiannis

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

 2017 Greek Latte Art Championship – 1st place

2016 World Latte Art Battle – Final 16

2016 World Latte Art Championship – 8th place

2016 Greek Latte Art Championship – 1st place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

 The most unusual vessel I have poured latte art into is a small macchiato cup into a big cappuccino cup. I started by pouring the macchiato and then I finished off with the free pour on the big cappuccino cup.

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Pouring skills developed over time through hard work and lots of practice. Of course, the base for making great latte art is the perfectly steamed milk, patience, dedication. Last but not least, perception and understanding play also a very big role.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

In my free time I enjoy running and football.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Travelling as much as I can doing latte art and doing coffee trips is something I would love to do. Also, a great ambition of mine is having my own coffee shop, where I can do all these things I am so passionate about every day!

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

I would like to thank my coach, the shop where I am working, my family and all the people who stood beside me, supported me and believed in me.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

I am looking forward to these few minutes on the competition stage! TIME!

Hong Kong
Tse Kwun Kit
Accro Coffee

Hey, I’m Keith. First time in this big party.

nothingtse

instagamnothingtse

How did you get started in coffee?

Accident – part time job during studies

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Hong Kong Latte Art Championship 2015 – 5th

Hong Kong Latte Art Championship 2016 – 1st 

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Practice and practice

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Beer and Beer and……BurgerSSS

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Team Accro

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Meet all the best latte artists in the world and learn something from them!

Hungary
Krisztina Tokaji
Volatilis Kft.

I’m 22 years old and I’ve been a barista for about 1.5 years. I work at Espresso Embassy in Budapest.  I feel very lucky to have found a profession I’m passionate about and I can imagine myself doing this for a long time. I’m learning something new everyday and I’m very excited to see how specialty coffee reaches more and more people in Hungary.

instagamlxp_612

 

Indonesia
Ovie Kurniawan
Common Grounds Coffee

I’ve been a barista for five years and was the 2016 Indonesian Latte Art Champion. My passion in latte art grew from my interest in drawing and challenges in replicating images on coffees.

ovie.kurniawan

instagamoviekoor

How did you get started in coffee?

 I began working in the F&B industry as a chef but was entrusted with the role to manage the cafe’s coffee bar after. While learning more about coffee and barista skills, I drawn to the techiques of creating beautiful patterns. I enjoyed latte art throw downs and that led me to the WCE championship.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

 Indonesia Latte Art Championship 2016 1st Place  Indonesia Latte Art Championship 2017 1st Place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

In the bucket, and in the big cup of Kendama

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Work Hard, Focus, Training, Repeat.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years??

Soccer and playing Kendama

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I would love to set up a coffee shop to promote the passion for latte art and as a venue for baristas to share ideas on latte art techniques.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

 There are many people whom I am very grateful for their support ad encouragement. Most importantly, my Coach, Pak Yato; my Wife and Family, and the Common  Grounds Indonesia team!

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Sightseeing for sure! To experience the culture of Hungary, especially the local cuisine and coffee culture.

Iran
Mansour Zandynahad
Lalehhotel

I have been working as a barista for the last 3 years. I love my job. Also I am always into art. I used to make sculptures and maquette.

mansour.zandi.nahad

instagamstronger.mz

How did you get started in coffee?

I started my job in a hotel. After a while they wanted me to work there as a barista. So coffee chose me. I became more interested as the days passed as I got familiar with the amazing world of coffee.I really think coffee has been my destiny.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

National Latte art champion  2017

Latte Art Champion in Isfahan Latte Art Championship 2016

2nd Place in National Latte Art Championship 2016

2nd Place in Fidilio Barista Championship 2015

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Portafilter

What is your secret to making great latte art?

I think it was my calmness and great microfoam.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I like animals and I adore art.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I still will be a barista and I will make every cup of coffee with love and passion.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

I really want to appreciate all people who always help me,especially Mr. Mohamad Mohamadkhani.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

I am looking forward to see my friends who are all the competitors and get familiar with them. And also I am enthusistic to share my love and passion for coffee with them.

Ireland
Renata Khedun
9th Degree Coffee Roaster

Hi my name is Renata Khedun, I am a barista for many years just because I like to work with coffee. Latte art makes costumers smile—that makes me happy.

renatakhedun

instagamrenatakhedun

How did you get started in coffee?

My first job was as a barista in Ireland, step by step I learned how to make a nice cup of coffee,with a nice latte art on top

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

2nd Place – 2014 Irish Latte Art Championship

2nd Place – 2015 Irish Latte Art Championship

1st Place – 2017 Irish Latte Art Championship

2nd Place – 2017 Irish Cup Tasters Championship

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Ice cream cone

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Most important is patience and practice, practice

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

I would like to say big thank you to my husband, he has been the best support and helped me all this time! And I would like to say thanks to James and all the staff who work at 9th Degree Coffee Roasters.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

 Visit coffee shops, try some traditional food and do some sightseeing in the city.

Italy
Matteo Beluffi
Independent

 

beluffi.m

instagambeluffimatteolatteart

 

How did you get started in coffee?

 When I met my coach, Mariano Semino

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

 Italian National Championship:  3rd Place – 2014, 2nd Place – 2015, 4th Place – 2016, 1st Place – 2017

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

 in Italian moka pot

What is your secret to making great latte art?

 Training, training, training

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Pastry and cooking

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

My family, my girlfriend and 9bar Barista School

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

 Visit the city and taste a lot of speciality coffee

Japan
Shogo Eto
Ogawa Coffee Creates

I was interested in latte art and entered this industry. After studying at the vocational school of Coffee for two years from 18 years old, I started a barista at Ogawa Coffee. From my point of view, the world of Latte Art is still developing, so I feel that new Latte Art will be born from now on, and I believe it will be a good opportunity for many people to be interested in the coffee industry. I would be delighted if this industry gets more exciting by further exploiting the world of latte art.

instagameto.00

How did you get started in coffee?

 I was surprised at the latte art which I saw for the first time, and I got interested in the coffee industry.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Japan Barista Championship 2013, Participated
Japan Barista Championship 2014, Participated
Japan Barista Championship 2015, 13th place
Japan Barista Championship 2016, Participated
Japan Latte Art Championship 2014, Participated
Japan Latte Art Championship 2015, Participated
Japan Latte Art Championship 2016, 4th place
Japan Latte Art Championship 2017, 1st place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

A bowl

What is your secret to making great latte art?

My secret is to quickly combine delicious espresso and delicious steamed milk.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I am interested in the world of chocolate. I suppose it would be profound because it resembles coffee.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Until now, I have been only taught, but in five years I would like to be a person who can teach many people the enjoyment of coffee.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

There are so many people I would like to appreciate, but I am particularly thankful for the Yoshikawa trainer, team Ogawa ‘s colleagues and shop colleagues, among others.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

I am looking for a hot spring.

Lithuania
Ieva Meiliūnaitė
Vero Cafe

I am Ieva from Vero Cafe, 23 years old. I’m working as a barista for two years now, so I am quite new in a coffee world. Nevertheless, it was enough time to realise that coffee has changed my life forever.

ieva.meiliunaite

instagammeiliunaite

How did you get started in coffee?

I was a simple waitress in small italian restaurant and I got interested in making coffee. My colleagues showed me the basics but that wasn’t enough for me, so I decided to start professional barista life. That’s how I get here 🙂

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Sounds boring, but I make coffee only in cups. Challenge accepted!

What is your secret to making great latte art?

I have no secret 🙂 it depends on a person’s willingness. How hard you want to be better than before.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

This year I am finishing my dental hygiene studies. Also I like playing volleyball and making cupcakes.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Judging in Latte art competition 🙂

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

I would like to thank for all my team who did a great job in preparing me for this competition.

Malaysia
Lucas Eng
JWC Global

I’m Lucas, current Malaysia Latte Art Champion 2017. I’ve been working in this wonderful coffee sector for the last 4 years. Brewing coffee is my passion and I’m doing it.

boonhong.eng

instagammamilialia

How did you get started in coffee?

Since 2013, after I drank a pacamara coffee, the taste inspired me to start my coffee diary.

What is your secret to making great latte art?

always good mood when pouring latte art :）

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

To bring more surprises and special latte art to you :）

Mexico
Jorge Solis
Coffeeximo

Hi I’m Jorge Solis from Mexico, I’m 23 years old.
I started to make latte art 2 years ago.
So excited to represent my country in this championship.

solissolis_

instagamsolissolis_

How did you get started in coffee?

I started to work in a coffee shop 4 years ago, there, I saw the barista make latte art.
It was there when my interest awoke to know how to make latte art, and even more to know more about the world of coffee.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Mexican Latte Art Championship 2016 – 10th place.
Mexican Latte Art Championship 2017 – 1st place.

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Visualize the figure before making it in the cup, and repeat the same figure over and over again. There is no more secret than practice.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I really like to do hip hop beats from my computer and a drum machine, also from time to time experimental music.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Visit iconic places get to know more of the culture of the city, drink local coffee and local beer and take a lots of photos

Netherlands
Nick Vink
H32

Hoi

 

 

 

 

New Zealand
Leo Li
Atomic Coffee Roasters

I have been passionate about coffee and especially in Latte Art for the last five years. I have been participating in Latte Art competitions since 2015, until now. Through my hard work and perseverance I am extremely excited to have achieved national Champion status this year, and feel so honoured to be able to compete alongside other national Champions from around the world.

eros.lee.77

instagamlxp_612

How did you get started in coffee?

It was by chance that I stumbled across a barista creating beautiful pattern in a cup of coffee with milk, and I fell in love with the art of coffee and latte art.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

 2015 New Zealand Latte Art Championship – 4th place

2016 New Zealand Latte Art Championship – 2nd place

2017 New Zealand Latte Art Championship – Champion

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

 An ice cream cone

What is your secret to making great latte art?

 Hard work and lots of practice

What are your interests outside of coffee?

 Cars, travel, dogs, food

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

 Open my own cafe

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

 My coaches, Masako and Sam, and my fiancee, Mabel

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

 Sightseeing and visiting local cafes to learn about different styles of coffee

Norway
Sarah K. Mahmood
Dromedar

My name is Sarah, I’m from originally from Palestine. I’ve worked as a barista since 2014.

sarahkhalidm

sarah.khalid.m

instagamsarah.khalid0580

How did you get started in coffee?

I started as en esker help after school time 🙂 I worked 7 hours a week in 6 months. 

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

2015 – 3rd place, 2016 – 1st place Unofficial Norwegian Champion (Throwdown)  2017 – 1st place Norwegian Latte Art Championship

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Poured a swan into a blind filter 🙂

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Make it with love 🙂 

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Reading and traveling. 🙂

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Bioengineering 🙂

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Family 🙂

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Representing Norway with all my best, make nice latte art and meet baristas from other lands 🙂

Philippines
Adrian Vocalan
Satchmi

Honestly my curiosity in latte art got me into the coffee industry—when I learned it, I started to explore, and to be a friendly person. I met some good baristas and they shared their knowledge about specialty coffee. My inspiration as a barista I think is all the great baristas all over the world. I want to meet them and have a Latte art throwdown, not to prove who’s gonna win, just for some bonding ?.  If my customers were sitting at the bar, I want them to feel that they will be having good coffee by making it with pure passion.

instagamBaristaian

How did you get started in coffee?

It started in 2013 because of my curiosity in latte art. 

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

2017 Philippine National Latte Art Champion

2016 Barista And Coffee Academy of Asia Latte Art Champion

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

 A deep vessel I guess

What is your secret to making great latte art?

 I don’t think I have a secret, I just have passion and perseverance

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I love drawings and taking pictures

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

5 years from now I can see myself as one of the World Latte Art judges.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Of course I would like to thank our lord for this kind of talent or skills. Family, friends and mentors.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

I’m so excited to meet all the competitors. And judges. Also to familiarise myself with the espresso machine, and to visit good places in budapest

Poland
Agnieszka Rojewska
Rojes

I’ve been working with coffee for 9 years now. Latte art was my first interest and I’ve poured milk ever since. Now I work as a barista trainer and coffee consultant

agarojewska

arrojes

instagamagarojewska

How did you get started in coffee?

Accident – part time job during studies

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Polish Latte Art Championship 2017, 2016, 2014 – 1st place

World Latte Art Battle Seoul 2016 – Best Performance Award

World Latte Art Championship 2016 – 5th place

Polish Barista Championship 2016, 2015 – 1st place

Milano Latte Art Challange – 2015 – 1st place

Polish Barista Championship 2014 – 2nd place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

My friends hands

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Training

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Football, music

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Hope with my training center somewhere in the coffee world

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Yes! All my team; Paula, Karolina, my shadow mental coach, and all who were taking care of me during this busy period

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Meet all the best latte artists in the world and learn something from them!

Puerto Rico
Christian Landrón Pagán
Barista Squared

My name is Christian Landrón Pagán, I am from San Juan Puerto Rico. I work at the Barista Squared coffee shop. I have an associate degree as a draftsman, a basic coffee tasting certification and currently I work as a professional barista. I had the opportunity to travel to the world of latte art in Nize and some coffee fest in the United States. Apart from my passion for coffee, one of the things I like most is working with wood. Last month, I culminated a course of cabinetmaking which made my mind expand in that world of wood

christian.pagan1

instagamcriscafes

How did you get started in coffee?

After completing my studies as a draftsman, a great friend inspire me to begin together in the world of barista.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

-2011: National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (2nd place)
-2012: National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico(2nd place)
-2014: National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (2nd place)
-2015: National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (2nd place)
-2016 National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (2nd place)
-2017 National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (1st place)

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

A shot glass

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Patience and dedication

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I’m interested in wood

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself in a coffee and wood business

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

I would like to recognize my girlfriend Natalia Forteza for always be there for me.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

– Visit the city
– Knowing the culture
– Engage with the weather
– To know the different professionals of latte art that stand out across the world

Romania
Sebastian Farcas
Barista School

28 years old with 10 years experience in Bartending and Barista. Barista trainer at Barista School since 2015.

sebastianioan.farcas

arcasFsi

instagamsebastian_ioan_farcas

How did you get started in coffee?

I used to be a bartender, and then I realised that I love coffee more than mixing alcohol 🙂

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

National Latte Art Championship 2012 – 3rd Place

National Latte Art Championship 2013 – 4th Place

National Latte Art Championship 2014 – 3rd Place

National Latte Art Championship 2015 – 1st place

WLAC in Gothenburg 2015 – 22nd Place, Preliminary Round

National Latte Art Championship 2016 -1st place

WLAC Shanghai 2016 – 25th Place, Preliminary Round

National Latte Art Championship 2017 – 1st Place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Ice scoop

What is your secret to making great latte art?

A lot of work

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Photography and cycling

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Making coffee

Is there anyone you'd like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

There are plenty of people who’d I like to thank, for the last six years they were with me. It would be a shame to miss some names and I do not want to forget anyone, I know very well how much it matters that they support me. I can only say thank you!!!! 

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

To eat gulash

Russia
Polina Notik
Roast & Crosby

Hi I’m Polina Notik from Russia. I’m 28 years old and a barista for 10 years. At the 2014 WLAC I was pouring a bee in a cup, and now it is simbol of my coffee shop Roast & Crosby.

polina.notik

instagamroast_and_crosby

How did you get started in coffee?

10 years ago in Samara, Russia

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

2014 WLAC – 21st Place, Preliminaries

What is your secret to making great latte art?

An abstract representation of drawing, and art school.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Snowboarding and my little daughter Aleksa

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

More coffee, more art

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

I’m excited and waiting for the tour to the Buda castle and Andrassy Avenue.

Singapore
Jervis Tan
Kinsmen Coffee

Hi, my name is Jervis. I run a mobile coffee company in Singapore, bringing great coffee to people around my country.

tanJervis

instagambaristartist

How did you get started in coffee?

I was working part time in an Italian restaurant as a service crew. It was shorthanded and I was asked to learn to make coffee. Since that my passion for coffee has never stopped and I continue to seek improvement in my skills as a barista.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

World Latte Art Championships 2015 – 28th Place, Preliminaries

World Latte Art Championships 2016, 16th Place, Preliminaries

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Cupping spoon

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Basics are important, do not aim to do difficult patterns if you haven’t mastered your basics.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Drawing!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Running a cafe serving great coffee to people.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

My fiancee definitely, she is always by my side, supporting me during my practices. And of course my coach Charlize, a WCE Judge, who trained me so hard and gave me so much guidance.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

It’s a really far country for me to travel to and I can’t wait to experience the different culture there. 

Slovakia
Lucia Ondruskova
Independent

lucka.ondruskova.7

instagamLuciaondruskova93

How did you get started in coffee?

4 years ago, I started working with coffee

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

2015  Slovak Latte Art Championship  1st Place

2016  Slovak Latte Art Championship  3rd Place

2017  Slovak Latte Art Championship  1st Place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Ice cream cone

What is your secret to making great latte art?

My art is to train every day without stress and to enjoy every pouring capuccino.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Baking cakes and making coffee

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I’ll let myself be surprised

South Africa
Alhenrico Thomas
Famous Brands Coffee Company

2x National Latte art champion, 3x Regional Latte art champion. Love coffee, music, and God.

 

instagamalhenricothomas

How did you get started in coffee?

I was a Barman at Spier Wine Estate and was introduced to the coffee profession. 

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Latte Art International Finals 2016 – 33rd 

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Preserve ramekin (small jam bowl) 

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Passion, creativity, showmanship, practice 

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Family and travelling 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

World Latte Art Champion !!!

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

My Beautiful Wife, God, Philip Reid and Shaun Aupaius 

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

I heard the architecture is amazing in Budapest. I am interested in different cultures and would love to experience the locals way of life, as well as hanging out with  my coffee peers. 

South Korea
Seonbon Won
LUFT

Hello everyone!
My name is Seonbon Won. And I’m 2017 Korean National Latte Art Champion.

seonbon.won

instagamseonbon_won

How did you get started in coffee?

My father has loved to drink coffee and tea since my childfood. He had a great impact on my coffee life

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

– 2017 WCCK Korea Latte Art Championship : 1st Rank
– 2016 WCCK Korea Latte Art Championship : 5th Rank

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

I got unique experience to pour latte art into an unusual vessel. It looked like a “Star”. I made a “Rosetta Snow Flower” with milk pouring from the center to the edge of the vessel.

What is your secret to making great latte art?

I make 2 different types of Latte Art. One is for the championship. It should be very creative, new-patterned and concentrated on clear description.
The other is for my customers. This Latte Art should be soft textured, properly temperatured, understandable pattened and tasty.
I always make effort making creative and unique Latte Art and try to satisfy my customers.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I expect to stay still in South Korea. I will be one of the people developing Korean Coffee culture.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself in a coffee and wood business

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Especially, my trainer Banseok Lee. He is one of the greatest trainers. Also, I really thank my team members who helped me overnights during the championship period.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

I’ll do my best to be a winner.
And I’ll have a fantastic dining with my trainer and Korean team!!

Spain
Karen Quiroga
Café Dromedario

I was born in Buenos Aires. I have lived in several countries of South America. I have been living in Spain for 10 years and I have been working in the cafe world for 4 years. I work in a small cafe in a village in Cantabria (northern Spain) where my clients enjoy the cups that I prepare each morning.

karenquiroga

instagamkaren_quiroga_barista

How did you get started in coffee?

Working. Then started investigating about coffee on the web and end up doing my first training course at Iecafe with Miguel Lamora. These last 3 years I have been forming in the school of coffee that has the “Grupo Dromedario”.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Four years ago I started my barista training. In 2015 I participated in the national Latte Art Championship of Latte in Spain, and claimed fourth place. Last year I returned to participate and I had a better result—second place. This year I have proclaimed champion of Spanish Latte Art. I am delighted to live the experience of representing my country in the worlds, and to share techniques and designs with baristas from other parts of the world.

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Into a turtle shell

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Work the milk well

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I like photography and try new recipes for healthy drinks

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Working and enjoying life in my own coffee shop

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Thank Jose Luis Rodriguez for betting on me and my trainer, Raul Alonso, for the daily support

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Meet all the great latte artists who are present to learn a little from all, and visit this wonderful city

Sweden
Clara Drake Pihlgren
da Matteo

I started working with coffee five years ago. I got in to the coffee world accidentally, and this was not at all what I intended. Competing? In coffee? I thought the whole idea was crazy. Me, the most nervous person I know, being up on a stage, competing in the most abstract competition I could think of. Ha ha. But this is my third year now, and this is absolutely one of the best things I’ve done, in my life. Such greatness and fantastic people you get to meet. Wow. I’m amazed.

clurax

instagamClurax

How did you get started in coffee?

Accidentally. I was supposed to work with movies and film photography, but to do that you need money. And let’s face it, it’s not that hard getting a job in our business. So I got a job in a mediocre coffeeshop, and from the moment I sat my foot there, I saw the potential coffee had. Two years passed and then I got headhunted to da Matteo in Gothenburg. I’ve been working there for three years now, and I couldn’t think of a better workplace. 

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

Swedish Latte Art Championship 2015 – 1st Place

Swedish Latte Art Championship 2016 – 1st Place

Swedish Latte Art Championship 2017 – 1st Place

World Latte Art Championship 2015 – 17th Place, Preliminaries

World Latte Art Championship 2016 – 20th Place, Preliminaries

Barista League II Gothenburg 2017 – 6th Place 

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

The mouth of my colleague. We were a bit drunk, the rest is history. 

What is your secret to making great latte art?

To not think too much and just pour. Let the hand just swirl and it will all be fine. People are overthinking things way to much. Stop that. 

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Can you have any interests outside of coffee? Well, of course you can. Reading, traveling and drinking a lot of beer are mine. Also cleaning. If there would be a competition in cleaning – I would probably be in the top 5. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I have absolutely no idea.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Yes. Peter – my coach. And the one and only Albin – who never doubted me for a second. He’s the best.  And the rest of the da Matteo crew who probably will be there cheering for me.  

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Meeting people. Drinking cheap beer. Taking dreamy baths. Being on some sort of vacation from the everyday work.

Switzerland
Gap Thangsubutr
Gappuccino

Life is a combination of magic and coffee! It is my inspiration to be creative. I found my destiny by coffee. I am looking forward participating in my first World Latte Art Championship in Budapest.

gijtipong

instagamgapscup

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

1st place at the Swiss Latte Art Championship 2017

1st place at the international Tiroler Barista Championship 2016

3rd place at the international Tiroler Latte Art Championship 2016

5th place at the Swiss Latte Art Championship 2016

2nd place at the Dallmayr Barista Jam 2015

6th place at the Swiss Brewers Cup Championship 2015

Taiwan
Giesen Chi-yuan
Alfee Coffee

Hi, I’m Giesen. Nice to meet you.

 

zheng.z.mang

instagamsuperqoo99

 

Thailand
Arnon Thitiprasert
Ristr8to

Start working as a Barista in Sydney from 2007, now I’m founder of Ristr8to and Ristr8to Lab in Chiang Mai, Thailand

doppio.ristretto

instagamristr8to

How did you get started in coffee?

In Australia, when I saw the 2007 World Latte Art Champion Jack Hanna, who was working in the same cafe pouring his latte art in the morning. Since then I have been practicing, aiming to become World Latte Art Champion like him one day.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

National Thailand Latte Art Championship 2015, 2016, 2017: Champion

World Latte Art Championship 2011: 6th Place

World Latte Art Championship 2015 : 5th Place

World Latte Art Championship 2016 : 11th Place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Plastic container

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Practicing and creativity

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Music and party

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Having fun in every moment of my life as i am doing now

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

All my friends and my family who have shown up while I was training. Also my staff at Ristr8to who are working for me so I can peacefully prepare for this World competition.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

Cafe hopping

Puerto Rico
Christian Landrón Pagán
Barista Squared

My name is Christian Landrón Pagán, I am from San Juan Puerto Rico. I work at the Barista Squared coffee shop. I have an associate degree as a draftsman, a basic coffee tasting certification and currently I work as a professional barista. I had the opportunity to travel to the world of latte art in Nize and some coffee fest in the United States. Apart from my passion for coffee, one of the things I like most is working with wood. Last month, I culminated a course of cabinetmaking which made my mind expand in that world of wood

christian.pagan1

instagamcriscafes

How did you get started in coffee?

After completing my studies as a draftsman, a great friend inspire me to begin together in the world of barista.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

-2011: National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (2nd place)
-2012: National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico(2nd place)
-2014: National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (2nd place)
-2015: National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (2nd place)
-2016 National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (2nd place)
-2017 National Competition of Latte Art in Puerto Rico (1st place)

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

A shot glass

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Patience and dedication

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I’m interested in wood

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself in a coffee and wood business

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

I would like to recognize my girlfriend Natalia Forteza for always be there for me.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

– Visit the city
– Knowing the culture
– Engage with the weather
– To know the different professionals of latte art that stand out across the world

Turkey
Özgür Genç
Keobs Coffee Roastery

Hello,
I am Özgür, from Keobs Coffee Roastery also working in the business position.
My interest in Latte art led me to this race. I’ll see.

oozgurgenc

0zqurGenc

instagamozqurgenc

How did you get started in coffee?

Everything started with latte art 😀

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

2015 SCAE Turkey LatteArt Championship (1st place)
2015 World LatteArt Championship
2016 SCAE Turkey LatteArt Championship (2nd place)
2017 SCAE Turkey LatteArt Championship (1st place)

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Flying hawk.

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Good coffee, good milk, cream spill right and proper

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Sports and motorcycles.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

3 years ago I said I want to open a coffee shop this question.
I’m very close.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Of course, endless thanks to my instructor showing me this aktepe erkal

What are you excited to do while you are in Budapest?

Really excited to be there.

United Kingdom
Heidi Philip-Smith
Coffeelab/The Roasting Party

My name is Heidi Philip-Smith and I’m 24 years old.

I’ve been in the coffee industry for 3 years.

I competed in the 2016 UK Latte Art Championships and came 2nd but my dream is be the first girl to win the World Latte Art Championships.

heidi.philipsmith

instagamheidiphilipsmith

How did you get started in coffee?

3 years ago myself and a friend went to London Coffee Festival on trade day and entered the Cravendale Latte Art Competition (my first ever competition) — I had to go against Dhan tamang (*5 UK Latte Art Champ!) Unfortunately I didn’t beat Dhan, but we made a good friendship and I’ve worked for him ever since and learnt all my latte art from him.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

U.K. Latte Art Championships
Top 20 in 2015
2nd Place 2016

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Martini glass

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Being creative — I always try to create something different

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I enjoy travelling, any sort of sport — cycling, running, and tennis

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years time I either see myself having my own coffee shop or traveling the world visiting coffee shops and see the world.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

Firstly my coach, Dhan tamang — I wouldn’t be where I am now without his help! Also the company I work for — Coffee Lab UK / The Roasting Party have been a huge support.

What are you excited to do while you are in Budapest?

Just being in Budapest is exciting for me! It’s such a beautiful city! Meeting the other competitors, and making new friendships.

Ukraine
Oleksandr Benytskyi
Custom Coffee

Hi everyone! There are two passions in my life: coffee and painting. I decided to combine my passions 5 years ago and started to draw on coffee. This year I won in the National Championship so see you.

BenytskyiAlexander

instagammr.benytskyi

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

2012 Ukraine Coffee in Good Spirit Championship – 2nd Place

2013 Ukraine Barista Championship – 2nd Place

2017 Ukraine Cup Tasting Championship of Ukraine – 3rd place

2017 Ukraine Latte Art Championship – 1st Place

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Human mouth

What is your secret to making great latte art?

To be in love with art

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Painting and sport

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

To have fun

United Arab Emirates
Marvin Soliven
Nostalgia Dubai

In coffee, “Art is not important but how it taste”, in contrast to what I strongly believe “feed the eyes first before the stomach” –barista_marvz19

Marvin Soliven from the Philippines, Senior Barista at Nostalgia Dubai, UAE. Before he won the National Latte Art Championship, Marvin knew nothing about the coffee industry. He tended to be an aspiring artist but fell into the world of coffee. However, he gave up everything and managed to unite his passion of art in the field of coffee.

marvin.soliven.58

instagam

tzar_gabriel02

How did you get started in coffee?

Before I moved to Dubai, I knew nothing about coffee. In my first company, the love of coffee was all started when I tried my first pour which made me realise that coffee could be my world. The first thing that interested me with coffee was latte art. At that time it was a new trend, so I started learning, watching videos, and being taught… after years of improving myself I began to design an artistic design that was created by my creative mind and handle a roasted  and ground bean made by my imaginative soul that innovated from those classical tradition to new coffee Industry.  On the other hand, in my thirty years of existence, my perception of coffee evolved due to my love and passion in creating relevant taste towards coffee that could somehow be an instrument to connect my art in the field of coffee to coffee lovers’ emotion.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results.

*2016 UAE National Latte Art Championship  – Champion

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?

Nothing 

What is your secret to making great latte art?

Constant and correct practice make it perfect with LOVE and PASSION for what you are doing is of great help to visualize the pattern. With great training, it will create great latte art.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Arts, architecture, foods, sports, motorbikes

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Besides being an excellent coach/trainer to our aspiring baristas, and most importantly, a specialty cafe owner—the hope that I might be one of the judges of this championship in the next World Coffee Event, five years from now.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognise, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?

First of all, my family who support me—my wife and kids. A big thank you to Nostalgia Dubai—to the best boss ever, Miss Maitha, and to my coach Lyndon Recera. To the rest of Nostalgia family, who have supported me from practice until the competition date, thank you for giving me this opportunity.

What are you excited to do while in Budapest?

It’s an honor to be there and meet different people with diversity. Interacting with those coffee professionals at World of Coffee, and learning something from them, that surely will help me grow as well-rounded individual and deepen my knowledge throughout coffee industry.