Brew-tiful experience for learners
The third annual Schools Barista Competition, host by Northcliff-based Thando Coffee Company, was hosted at Randeor School.
The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as Thando Coffee Company, based out of Northcliff’s Eye Hospital, hosted its third annual Schools Barista Competition at Randeor School.
The event brought together 21 talented learners from five schools across Gauteng to showcase their barista skills in a spirited and heartwarming competition.
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This initiative is part of the schools barista skills programme, an innovative training model designed and run by Thando Coffee Company. The programme equips learners with barista skills that can be applied immediately upon finishing school. As part of the training, learners participate in job shadowing and hands-on practicals at Thando Coffee Shop, gaining real-world experience in a professional environment.
“This is more than just a competition,” said Nomathemba Mpala of Thando Coffee Company. “It’s a celebration of inclusion, potential, and meaningful skills development.”
The competition saw learners overcome nerves and rise to the occasion – pulling espresso shots, steaming milk, and pouring beautifully crafted cappuccinos in an effort to impress the judges.
The top six were:
- Banele Mahwayi – Randeor School (1st place),
- Ntokozo Mazibuko – Isipho Sethu School (2nd place),
- Lindiwe Dladla – Randeor School (3rd place),
- Njabulo Ngwenya – Randeor School (4th place),
- Edward Nkosiyaphansti – Isipho Sethu School (5th place), and
- Jordan Lee Ludick – Belvedere School (6th place).
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Equipserve, Nestlé Professional, Ultimate Water, Seam Coffee, Dewfresh, the Specialty Coffee Association of Southern Africa (SCASA), Wedu Hikwa, and Jo Bond.
As the programme continues to grow year on year, it provides, not only training, but also empowerment and opportunity… One beautifully poured cup of coffee at a time.
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