Indonesia
Aga
SMITH

Please tell us a little bit about yourself:

My name is Aga, I’m the head roaster and Co-founder of SMITH coffee bar & roastery in Jakarta,Indonesia. I’m also a trainer of Co-roasting space in Harapan Djaya coffee roaster Jakarta. I’ve been in this industry since 2009 as a barista in a chain coffee shop, then decided to move to specialty coffee in 2013 to learn more. Now, coffee is not just how I can make a living within the industry. More than that, coffee is a passion. My first national competition was in 2013, since then competition has become a motivation that triggers me to be a better person in the coffee industry and also the time where I can play around through researches and experiments. Back in 2017, I went to WBC and submitted myself to be a volunteer. I had a discussion with my friend that I really want to be here as a competitor, and finally after continuous efforts and heavy trainings, as well as huge supports from my friends I can achieve what I was aiming for. This year, it will be my first year as a competitor in WBC.

What are you excited to do while you are in Amsterdam?:

This will be my first time to go to Amsterdam. I am looking forward to get lost, drown myself in coffee, capture lots of memories, gain new friends, and obviously have fun.

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

2013 Indonesia Barista Championship – 5th Place
2014 Indonesia Barista Championship – 2nd Place
2014 Indonesia Latte Art Championship – 2nd Place
2015 Indonesia Latte Art Championship – 2nd Place
2018 Indonesia Barista Championship – 1st Place

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WBC?:

My mom who always prays for me, My team from SMITH coffee bar and roastery. My super humble coach, Cindy Herlin and Rendy, who have been supporting me since my first competition. Friends that support with their kind words as well as advices. All of Indonesia that support for sure.

How do you see the coffee industry changing in the future?:

I think we will see more and more appreciation from people towards the specialty coffee industry, through its process that results in different experiences. This industry also will be more transparent because of the increasing accessibility of information through digital platforms. But I hope this also means that we also will think more about the sustainability, especially considering the climate change, and a lack of ecosystem that will impact this industry.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:

On a farm maybe, making my own lot!

What are your interests outside of coffee?:

I love photography, music and travel

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