WBC Countdown: Barista Champion of the Netherlands Zjevaun Lemar Janga

ZJEVAUN LEMAR JANGA
BARISTA CHAMPION OF THE NETHERLANDS
@zjevaunjanga

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Barista Mag:  Before coffee, did you work in a different job or industry, or what did you study in school?

Zjevaun:  I studied at a maritime school.

BMag:  How did you get started in coffee?

Zjevaun:  After 17 years of nice sun in Aruba I came to Holland to go to the maritime school that is next to the restaurant that I now work in. So I decided to change my direction so after a year I came into contact with coffee and learned that it is a very difficult product, so with the mindset of getting that perfect shot, I started the long coffee journey.

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BMag:  What was your first amazing experience with coffee?

Zjevaun:  My first amazing experience was smelling almonds in my espresso.

BMag:  Who has been your greatest influence in coffee? Why?

Zjevaun:  Francois Geurds (chef) and Sander Schat (barista). Both are coffee freaks with a love for coffee.

BMag:  What would you like to see change about the coffee industry/community?

Zjevaun:  That in restaurants, and especially top-class restaurants, you can find the best coffees in the world, and next to  sommeliers you also have a barista that can give you advice about coffee after a fine dining experience.

BMag:  Which coffee producing country you would like to visit, and why?

Zjevaun:  Honduras, Guatemala, and Panama. I get motivated when I hear about the passion those farmers have, even when times are hard. and the culture is amazing.

BMag:  What are your interests outside of coffee?

Zjevaun:  Windsurfing, working ”anywhere where the sun is!

BMag:  Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Zjevaun:  I will be better all around, promoting specialty coffee in top class restaurants.

 

 

About Sarah 929 Articles
Sarah Allen (she/her) is co-founder and editor of Barista Magazine, the international trade magazine for coffee professionals. A passionate advocate for baristas, quality, and the coffee community, Sarah has traveled widely to research stories, interact with readers, and present on a variety of topics affecting specialty coffee. She also loves animals, swimming, ice cream, and living in Portland, Oregon.