CoffeMM Academy’s Barista Battle competition crowns three champions

After many rounds of brewing and pouring, baristas Vuyo Stemela, Lawrence Walani, and Siyanda Tose claimed victory in the categories of Best Barista, Best Latte Art, and Best Coffee Connoisseur, respectively.

Mr Stemela is from Khayelitsha, Mr Walani from Grabouw, and Mr Tose from Muizenberg.

The finals of the 2025 CoffeeMM Barista Battle competition took place on Saturday, July 26, in front of a live audience at the Co-Create Hub in Stellenbosch.

Launched in 2023, the Barista Battle has become an annual competition for emerging coffee professionals to showcase their skills.

Baristas were judged on technical skill, creativity, and coffee knowledge by a panel of industry veterans, including Alhenrico Thomas, Kudakwashe Gezi, and Evans Chipezeze.

Talking about his experience, Mr Stemela said: “Starting from the preliminary round, it was a bit challenging. Two gentlemen made everything awkward. 

“It was not as smooth as we all expected it to be. From the first round, I was challenged. I think I felt a bit anxious, and I was under pressure, including the second round - that's where I felt the heat. The advice that I will give someone for the next competition is: you must show up.”

This year’s theme was Grind, Brew and Conquer.

“These winners represent the next generation of coffee excellence,” said the event organiser Austain Zhanota, “Their passion and skill push the boundaries of what coffee can be and their dedication also proved that coffee is both an art and science.” 

CoffeeMM chief executive, Mhlengi Ngcobo, said what makes this competition exciting is that as people compete, they also get an opportunity to tell their story. 

“To be role players in the coffee industry emphasizes one of the core pillars of our brand which is empowerment,” he said. 

The winners received cash prizes, trophies, some goodies and bragging rights until next year’s competition.