Editor’s note: As we approach the beginning of the 2014 World Barista Championship, which takes place in Rimini, Italy, June 9 “12, at the SCAE’s World of Coffee event, we would like to introduce you to the National Barista Champions who all worked incredibly hard to earn a position in this preeminent coffee contest. Profiles of all 54 competitors will appear on Barista Magazine’s blog between Monday, June 2, and Monday, June 9, and can all be accessed under the category header “WBC 2014 Rimini.”
BARISTA CHAMPION OF UKRAINE
Natalia Ostapyuk
World of Coffee
Coach: Gwilym Davies
About you: I am from the beautiful city Lviv. Coffee culture is the foundation of city life. So [it’s] not surprising that I work with coffee. It’s been for 6 years already and I happy with it. This year I became [for the] second time the champion, and I’m really proud of myself.
How many years have you worked with coffee or in the coffee industry?
6
Before coffee, did you work in a different job or industry, or what did you study in school?
It’s my first job. Before I was studying in university and have my diploma in philosophy and theology.
How did you get started in coffee?
Work [while I was a] student in the summertime.
What was your first amazing experience with coffee?
My first championship when I got 10th place.
Who has been your greatest influence in coffee? Why?
I think a lot of the people and all are different. And they had influence in different times, so it’s hard to say who exactly.
What would you like to see change about the coffee industry/community?
Even if it’s a business with a lot of money, I would like that people still stay with their honor and word.
Besides your own cafe, what cafe do you think everyone should visit?
Of course Svit Kavy in Warsaw is great.
Which coffee producing country you would like to visit, and why?
Ethiopia! Everything start from there.
What are your interests outside of coffee?
Ukrainian folk, books and food.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
As a mommy.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or who helped you prepare for the WBC?
YES!!! Markiyan Bedriy, our owner, he is the best of the best. To our roaster man Roman Melnyk who was worried the most but did the greatist job. To all the girls from work. To my coach that had so much patience. And to all that was with me all the time.
