Project Description
South Africa
Winston Thomas
Origin Coffee Roasting
Please tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the Head Barista, Barista Trainer and part-time Wholesaler at Origin Coffee Roasting in Cape Town. This is my second year of competition and my first time competing at the WBC.
What are you excited to do while you are in Seoul?:
Immerse myself in Seoul’s coffee culture and connect with the WBC community.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
SA Aeropress Championships 2016 – 1st Place
SA Barista Championships 2016 – 8th Place
SA Barista Championships 2017 – 1st Place
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WBC?:
Firstly I must thank God for bringing me this far on my coffee journey. Secondly my Origin Coffee Roasting family, more specifically the owner Joel Singer, who has done a lot to support me at competitions. Team SA at WBC in Dublin 2016—amazing experience being a part of this team. Lastly all of my sponsors, coaching team and support team past and present. There are way too many names to mention but you know who you are. Thank you all!
How do you see the coffee industry changing in the future?:
I see more emphasis being placed on service and customer engagement. New varietals, new process innovations. Endless possibilities.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
A 3 time WBC competitor, having contributed to coffee education and infrastructure development in Africa.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
I enjoy the outdoors and sport and Cape Town has a lot to offer in this realm. Surfing, hiking, soccer, cricket, running, etc. I also like travel, meeting new people, and experiencing new cultures.
