AN EVESHAM barista has spoken of her pride after competing in an international competition against some of the best in the world.
Joanne Osbourne, aged 29, from Cost Coffee’s store in Tesco, Evesham, competed in the Global Barista of the Year finals in London on July 2 and 3.
She was selected to compete in the 15th annual competition after being crowned the winner of Costa’s UK and Ireland Barista of the Year competition in April.
Joanne went head to head against seven other top baristas from Costa Coffee stores across the United Kingdom, Europe, Middle East, North Africa, China, India and Japan for international bragging rights.
Challenges for the international final included ‘The Canvas’ where finalists are required to make identical drinks, as well as ‘The Special’ where each of the baristas will craft and present their own innovative hot and iced coffee.
Despite not securing a podium finish, Joanne was incredibly proud of herself for her achievements and felt honoured to be a part of the competition.
She added: “Representing Evesham and Costa Coffee on an international stage has been an incredible honor.
“I have loved every moment of this experience, and I’m so proud of myself for not only winning the UK&I finals, but also competing in the global competition.”
Denila Kumar from Qatar earned the top spot as Costa Coffee’s Global Barista of the Year, with Shogo Abe from Japan taking second place, followed by Adbin Subedi, from the UK securing third place.
