AFRICA

THE BARISTA LEAGUE:

JOHANNESBURG | 4 OCT

It may not be one of South Africa’s three capital cities, but Johannesburg is undeniably the liveliest—and that energy is reflected in its dynamic coffee scene. Having hosted some of the continent’s leading coffee expos, the city is no stranger to speciality coffee events. But The Barista League: Africa is bringing something entirely new.

Set against the unbeatable cityscape backdrop of Katy’s Palace Bar, The Barista League: Africa will see 20 of the region’s best baristas battle it out to become our first-ever champions of Africa.

Not competing? Not to worry. At The Barista League baristas don’t have to compete to get involved: aside from cheering on your favourite team, attendees can explore the Roasters Village or try out the competition coffee at The Barista League café, become a Mystery Judge, visit our partners and play games to win exciting prizes, grab a beer or a coffee cocktail and network, or simply chill out and enjoy the DJ.

Come and see what a Not Your Standard Barista Competition is all about!

Location: Katys Palace Bar
Date: 04 OCTOBER 2025
Time: 17:00
Ticket price: General Admission: 120 ZAR | Barista Pass: For free

MEET THE JUDGES

  • STEVO KÜHN

    Platō & Independent
    @stevobrewscoffee

    Owner of Urban Brew Barista Academy, SCA trainer, award-winning barista coach—Stevo emerged victorious at both the national and continental level, and is known for his dedication to coaching and competing.
    2025 South African Barista Champion & 2025 African Barista Champion

  • LEROY KGOPA

    Home Of The Bean
    @LemogangK

    Co-founder of Home of The Bean, a café and mobile coffee kombi in Johannesburg. Sourcing beans globally and emphasizing coffee education and fair-trade values, values community building and excellence in service.

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Welcome to BREW BAR - a celebration of Africa’s finest roasters! From brand-new talent to the industry icons you know and love, this carefully curated selection of roasters showcases the best the continent has to offer. 

At The Barista League: Africa, we’re hosting Bluebird, Seam, Home of the Bean and Culture Coffee more to be announced soon!  

Get ready to discover unique coffees you won’t find in your neighbourhood cafe and get nerdy with the people who make it all happen. 

BREW BAR

THE BARISTA LEAGUE CAFÉ

The competition roasters take over The Barista League Cafe, serving the competition coffees. Taste the coffees the teams are working with on stage and chat with the talented roasters behind them – don’t miss out on this exclusive experience. 

Taking over the cafe at The Barista League: Africa will be Top Dose on Filter!  

MEET THE TEAMS

Thank you to our Africa Selection Committee for hand-picking the very best teams to compete in this event!
Khulekani Mpala, Waseem Jadwat, Itumeleng Kgopa & Kimbal Stokes

  • AL CAPPUCCINOS

    Mika & Ketumile

    Mika competed in A Shot In The Dark, a roasting competition after his first 6 months of roasting and managed to place 26th overall!
    Ketumile remembers his first Specialty Coffee Association latte art competition as a life changing experience that made him want to compete more (and even help others train for their competitions!).

  • BREWCARTEL

    Jody Ryan & Samurai

    Jody Ryan is a passionate barista who’s competed in top events like Scasa Aeropress, Cupping, and La Marzocco’s Crush the Rush and Wally Latte Art—when he’s not brewing, he’s drumming as a part-time session musician.
    Samurai is a former Starbucks Western Cape champion and national finalist, he is now the La Marzocco Wally Latte Art champion and a top five contender in Yellow Jacket’s Brewers League. He’s also represented leading coffee brands, served coffee to well-known figures, and modeled for La Marzocco.

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THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS!