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Michalina Sujewicz: Competitor, Judge
Jaye Sanders: Competitor, Judge
Hey, here is a little bio if ya need one of meeee Hey I’m Jaye. I am the Head Roaster for Firsthand Coffee Roasters in Hawkes Bay. I have been on the coffee scene since I was about 15ish. So let’s just say a fair few years now. I caught the specialty coffee buzz about 8 or 9 years ago now and haven’t looked back. I’ve competed and judged in a few of the NZ competitions and had the best time. I’ve finally found my people and like minded people who enjoy nerding out over similar things. Feeling honored and excited to be a part of this committee and can’t wait to see what’s to come!
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Michele Thai: Judge, Volunteer
Over the past 20 years, my journey through the coffee and hospitality landscape has taken me from the humble beginnings as a dishwasher all the way to becoming the proud owner-operator of several cafes and a roastery. This adventure has been incredibly enriching, filled with invaluable lessons that I’m eager to share, in hopes that they might light the way for others in our beloved industry. Through it all, I’ve come to recognize three core values as the pillars of success: People, Passion, and Persistence. These are the insights I wish to impart, to nurture a culture of excellence within the coffee community we all hold dear.
Diving into the realm of coffee championships, I’ve seen these three pillars come vividly to life, encapsulating the very essence of our vibrant community:
People: The championships are a melting pot where baristas, judges, and coffee lovers unite, weaving a rich tapestry of shared enthusiasm. For me, it’s always been about forging connections, learning from peers, and reveling in our collective coffee journey. This sense of belonging and collaboration is the secret sauce to standing out in the competitive landscape.
Passion: Watching competitors immerse themselves in their craft has been nothing short of inspiring. Their unwavering commitment drives them to explore uncharted flavors, perfect their brewing art, and pioneer new frontiers. This zeal not only propels them to new heights but also motivates the rest of us to delve deeper into the wonders of coffee.
Persistence: The path to triumph in coffee championships is strewn with obstacles, testing every competitor’s resolve. It’s a path I’ve seen demand resilience, a willingness to embrace feedback, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. This tenacity is what navigates competitors through the challenges of competition, guiding them towards success.
Coffee championships magnify these values, spotlighting the competitive fervor and the collaborative spirit that define our coffee culture. They celebrate the artistry, innovation, and the connections that knit our community together, inspiring each of us to chase our coffee dreams with all the dedication and joy in our hearts. Let’s hold these values close, support each other, and cherish our collective journey. Together, we’re not just forging careers; we’re cultivating a community that, I believe, will one day fill us all with immense pride.
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Ken Shi: Competitor, Judge, Volunteer & current NZSCA Board Member