A Decade of Coffee Passion: Meet the Partners Participating in the 2025 Starbucks LAC Barista Championship
The next edition of the Starbucks Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) Barista Championship is just around the corner – and this year will be even more special as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of this unique competition that honors the art of coffee and the talent of baristas from across our region.
From November 10–13, national champions from 18 markets across Latin America and the Caribbean will gather at an unparalleled stage: Costa Rica and Starbucks global agronomy headquarters, Hacienda Alsacia. There, they will showcase their talent and passion for coffee through the preparation of unique beverages.
The LAC Barista Championship is much more than a tournament; it’s a space where green apron partners demonstrate skill, creativity and passion. Every preparation, every pour and every cup served is an expression of their love for the craft and their connection to coffee culture.
In this milestone edition, Hacienda Alsacia will once again welcome the finalists as the perfect setting to celebrate a decade of coffee excellence. The farm stands as a symbol of Starbucks commitment to innovation and coffee sustainability, making it the ideal host for the 10th anniversary of the LAC championship. Surrounded by coffee fields that tell the story of the bean from seed to cup, baristas will be able to connect with the essence of their craft in a place that has already witnessed unforgettable finals in past years.
We invite you to get to know the champions who will bring this edition to life, discover what inspires them and learn how their journeys have led them to this grand finale in Costa Rica. Join us in celebrating a decade of coffee excellence!
Valentín, Argentina
Partner since 2024
“For me, coffee is so much more than a beverage – it’s a bridge that creates connections and turns moments into lasting memories. On this journey that I’ve only just begun, I’ve found a space to deepen one of my greatest passions while learning every day from the experience and support of my partners.
What I love most about being a barista is the opportunity to connect with customers through each beverage, while discovering new ways to enjoy coffee. Every cup is unique, different from the one before and the one after, and along the way I’ve learned to refine my craft and appreciate the endless possibilities coffee has to offer.
The 10th edition of the LAC Barista Championship is a once-in-a-lifetime experience – an opportunity to express our passion for coffee with creativity, and to keep growing personally and professionally.”
Tahira, Barbados
Partner since 2023
“The passion for coffee and the warmth of the partners I saw on every visit inspired me to join Starbucks. Since then, I’ve shared that same passion with my family and friends, practicing and learning every day.
Each interaction with customers has been key. Listening to their feedback about the beverages I prepare has helped me strengthen my skills and grow as a barista.
Taking part in such a special edition boosted my confidence, while also giving me the chance to learn from my leaders and fellow champions. I’m so excited to visit Hacienda Alsacia and to discover more about the origins of the coffees we serve.”
Luis, Bolivia
Partner since 2023
“It felt like a dream to join such an important global company and even more so as my very first job. Today, it’s an honor to represent my market in such a meaningful competition.
Coffee has always been part of my life, from unforgettable family moments to the genuine connections I’ve built with partners and customers.
This journey pushed me to practice latte art and to keep learning about coffee, while also strengthening my communication skills. Along the way, the support of my partners and family inspired me to always give my very best.”
Lizie, Brazil
Partner since 2022
“Coffee is much more than a drink – it’s an invitation to enjoy the present, reflect and find inspiration in the little details. It has become both my passion and my career, one that allows me to have unique experiences like this 10th edition of the (LAC) Barista Championship.
What I value most about being a barista is being part of a team that honors its community and builds real connections with customers through every cup.
Every stage of the championship has been an emotional journey, a mix of nerves and pride that taught me what we can achieve when we believe in ourselves. It was also an opportunity to feel the support of my partners – a motivation that drives me to give my very best in the finals at Hacienda Alsacia.”
Luis, Chile
Partner since 2023
“Coffee is a source of inspiration in my life. Behind every cup are stories, aromas and flavors that invite me to explore more. It’s a ritual that awakens my senses and helps me connect with people.
Being a barista has allowed me to turn that passion into meaningful experiences. Every beverage I prepare is an opportunity to learn, to improve, and to create a special moment with customers.
I’m excited to meet partners from other markets and learn about each champion’s vision of coffee. Our region is so diverse, and our shared coffee connection defines us. Visiting such an iconic place as Hacienda Alsacia makes this edition one of the most special yet.”
Daniel, Colombia
Partner since 2023
“Coffee has always been an experience that awakens my senses and curiosity. Preparing each beverage allows me to discover new aromas, flavors and lessons, reinforcing my passion and reminding me that every cup is an opportunity to grow and create something meaningful.
Being a barista allows me to transform my passion for coffee into shared experiences. I’ve been fortunate to build genuine connections and learn from my partners, celebrating challenges and achievements together as we grow.
The Barista Championship is a chance to celebrate that effort and bring our passion to a unique stage. This 10th edition is especially meaningful because it allows us to test our skills in an event full of diversity, teamwork and the unity that coffee inspires across our region.”
María, Costa Rica
Partner since 2024
“When I started at Starbucks, I thought of coffee only as a delicious drink – but over time, I discovered the process, the history and the dedication behind every cup. Today, I’m proud to be an ambassador of passion, quality and human connection, bringing those lessons to every interaction with customers.
Being a barista means creating moments that leave a mark, sparking smiles and becoming part of someone’s day – even if just for a moment. I’ll never forget when a customer thanked me because their beverage reminded them of home. That day I realized coffee has the power to touch people’s hearts.
This edition of the LAC Barista Championship is very special to me because I’ll be representing my market at Starbucks coffee farm, Hacienda Alsacia. I want to show how honored I feel to welcome my fellow baristas to the place where our coffee story begins.”
Joel, El Salvador
Partner since 2022
“Starbucks has helped me meet amazing people and stories – thanks to them, my passion for coffee has grown with a focus on the connections and moments we can create for every customer.
Being a barista has given me a different perspective on life. Every day I learn something new and interesting, meet new people, and create smiles and connections with customers. It pushes me to give my best and turn each experience into an opportunity to grow.
I’m convinced that being part of the finals of the LAC Barista Championship will be an unforgettable experience.”
Raquel, Guatemala
Partner since 2022
“Starbucks has been a true opportunity to grow within coffee culture – something I’m passionate about and that allows me to connect with customers and create meaningful moments. My partners say I’m known for building strong connections with the people who visit us.
For me, coffee is a moment of authenticity and connection. Being a barista helped me understand the effort and dedication behind every cup. Each beverage can touch customers’ hearts, spark conversations and create memorable experiences.
After almost three years, I finally have the chance to represent Guatemala. This second participation has given me new learnings, new partners, and a deep sense of Starbucks culture of support, while strengthening my resilience to reach the regional finals of the 10th edition of the Barista Championship.”
Javon, Guyana
Partner since 2023
“My journey with coffee began when I joined a tasting of the iced coffee blend; that’s when I realized coffee has the power to bring people together. Today, coffee represents community and shared moments that leave a mark. It has been an extraordinary experience.
Being a barista allows me to practice my skills, refine my favorite beverages, and live experiences I deeply value. The competition was a challenge I embraced with excitement and pride, representing Guyana on this stage. Although nerves were my biggest obstacle, I learned to let go and enjoy the moment, trusting everything I had practiced.
Reaching this stage of the 2025 Barista Championship is an opportunity to show what I’m capable of, while learning from the talent of partners from other markets. Beyond the title, what excites me most is embracing this unique experience, representing my community, and sharing this journey with amazing people.”
Aprelle, Jamaica
Partner since 2023
“The passion, warmth, and professionalism of the partners I met as a customer made me feel that Starbucks was the place where I could grow professionally while continuing to learn about something I love — coffee.
Being a barista is a journey that allows us to create moments that matter. It’s not just about preparing beverages; it’s about creating spaces of joy and belonging. This role has taught me to be more patient, empathetic, and present.
Making it to the finals of the (LAC) Barista Championship, especially in its 10th edition, is an honor. Each stage helped me step outside my comfort zone and push myself to be better. Preparing meant extra effort, constant practice, and learning to ask for help – even on my days off. This experience represents history, community, and fulfilled dreams. My greatest hope is to return with new friendships, renewed inspiration, and a heart full of stories to share.”
Edson, Mexico
Partner since 2023
“I discovered my passion for coffee through Starbucks coffee tastings. The story behind each bean and the way coffee creates connections between people captivated me from the very first moment.
Being a barista has become a fundamental part of my life. Every day, more people recognize me as Edson, the barista, and that motivates me to give my best to customers, keep learning about coffee, and enjoy unique experiences like the Barista Championship.
From the start, participating in this competition has been an exciting challenge. I had to balance school, work, and practice; many times, I stayed after my shift to study or host coffee tastings with customers to hear their feedback. Today, I’m thrilled to compete with the best partners from other markets and absorb as much knowledge as I can to continue fueling my passion for coffee.”
Georgia, Panama
Partner since 2022
“Coffee has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up surrounded by its aroma, by stories shared over cups, and by the passionate work of my parents as coffee farmers. Offering customers a high-quality beverage or a new recommendation has positively impacted my life. I love working with my customers – I can even say I’ve made friends thanks to this opportunity.
Today, as a proud barista, I have the privilege of living this passion from another place: sharing knowledge, creating connections, and honoring the legacy I inherited. Coffee doesn’t just accompany me; it allows me to connect with those who value it as much as I do.
I’m thrilled to share moments and new perspectives on coffee at the Barista Championship finals. I feel it will be a beautiful way to learn new things and honor the coffee farmers of our region in such a meaningful place as Hacienda Alsacia.”
Nicole, Paraguay
Partner since 2023
“Starbucks taught me that behind every cup there are stories, dedication, and people; over time, I realized that a cup of coffee is also a moment of connection and shared learning. I remember the first time I led a tasting and explained to a customer where the bean came from; in that moment, I felt I wasn’t just serving coffee but also sharing the culture of something I’m truly passionate about.
My journey as a barista began as a search for a space to learn, connect with others, and grow. Today, it means much more than preparing drinks: it’s about creating memorable experiences and sharing the passion for coffee in every interaction. This role has taught me to be more empathetic, to listen, and to appreciate the small moments of connection in my daily life.
Reaching the final of the LAC Barista Championship, especially in this tenth edition, is an honor and a reminder of how far one can go with discipline and love for what they do. If I could tell a story through a cup of coffee, I would say that Latin America is a land of coffee and warm hearts, where every barista brings passion and authenticity to everything they do.”
Alexander, Peru
Partner since 2023
“Back in university, professors often used Starbucks as an example of belonging and connection, not just as a company, but as a place where people can feel part of something unique, a space where meaningful connections are created every day. Working with my partners and learning constantly has reinforced this vision of what makes Starbucks so special.
Coffee means a lot to me — both personally and professionally. It’s a bridge that connects people, giving us the chance to share stories, start conversations, and enjoy moments together. This passion has allowed me to meet more partners and keep learning every single day along the way.
This experience reminded me of the importance of enjoying the process, trusting those around us, and learning from each moment. The support of my family and of Sebastián, my Barista Trainer, has been essential — his advice and stories as a champion inspired me deeply. Now I’m preparing for the finals at Hacienda Alsacia with gratitude, excitement, and the desire to share the very best of myself and my culture.”
Sebastián, Puerto Rico
Partner since 2023
“Growing up in Yauco, Puerto Rico — a coffee-growing community town — coffee has always been part of my life. My journey as a barista began after college, when I was looking for a creative career that would allow me to connect with people. For me, coffee symbolizes culture, passion and hard work. I fondly remember coming home from school to find my grandparents sharing coffee, filling our home with its warm aroma.
What I love most about being a barista is the ability to create meaningful connections — like when a customer thanked me for recommending a beverage that later became a favorite in her office.
This year’s (LAC) Barista Championship was an incredible growth experience for me. I practiced my latte art and explored our coffee offerings, which helped strengthen my skills. My advice to new baristas is to immerse themselves in coffee’s history — it deepens passion and appreciation for the craft.”
Kertisha, Trinidad & Tobago
Partner since 2021
“Starbucks is a source of inspiration to develop my passion for coffee, especially by introducing me to the Starbucks Global Academy platform, where I was able to gain knowledge about beverages and generate genuine connections with customers.
Coffee represents community, a way to connect and create a sense of belonging. Being a barista means showing passion for creating a welcoming space for everyone I interact with, making sure Starbucks feels like a ‘third place’ where people can enjoy meaningful moments
Each stage of the Barista Championship has given me a new perspective on beverage preparation and the camaraderie among baristas I’ve competed with. The final stage, at Hacienda Alsacia, is an opportunity to share my culture and passion for coffee while learning from partners across different markets.”
Lucas, Uruguay
Partner since 2024
“Starbucks has strengthened my connection to coffee, giving me the chance to experience it from both the customer and partner perspective. Here, I’ve found the tools and the space to learn, grow and live this passion every day behind bars.
The most valuable part of learning is being able to share it — especially when it’s about something I love, like coffee culture. Being a barista is about sharing our knowledge in every beverage, creating connections that celebrate what we do.
This competition showed me how my fellow partners and I can bring our very best at every stage, recognizing our effort and strengthening the pride we share in our work. Living this experience is not only about representing ourselves — it also inspires me to keep growing and to value even more the unity that defines us as partners.”
