Esther Atieno Ochieng showcased her exceptional skills and successfully defended her title at the 19th Kenya National Barista Championships (KNBC) this year. The highly anticipated event took place at Nairobi’s Galleria Mall, where talented baristas from all corners of the country displayed their craft.
As a part of the esteemed World Barista Championships circuit, the KNBC aims to promote Kenya’s specialty coffee industry and foster sustainable and ethical practices in coffee production. The winner of the KNBC earns the privilege of representing Kenya at the upcoming World Barista Championships in Athens, Greece. Esther, who participated in the World Barista Championships in Melbourne last year, gained invaluable experience and inspiration, motivating her to participate in this year’s championship.
Addressing her fellow youth, Esther enthusiastically shares, “To my fellow youth, I want to emphasize that coffee offers a rewarding career. Take that leap of faith, explore the coffee industry, and discover where your passion lies. Once you find your niche, go all-in and pursue it with determination.”
Martin Shabaya, a former National Barista Champion for four consecutive years, also represented Kenya at the World Barista Championship in 2021, achieving an impressive fifth place. According to Martin, these championships have played a significant role in raising awareness about coffee among the general public. “Hosting the Championships here attracts numerous individuals eager to learn more about coffee, the machinery we use, and it presents the youth with a positive outlook on pursuing a career as a barista,” he shares. Martin further emphasizes how past champions, including himself, have experienced a significant boost in their careers. He proudly serves as an Ambassador for Sanremo Coffee machines, a testament to his accomplishments in the coffee industry.
The continued success of talented baristas like Esther and Martin highlights the growing recognition and opportunities within Kenya’s coffee sector. Their achievements inspire aspiring baristas and contribute to the overall growth and appreciation of the coffee culture in the country.