Meet Olga Kolarz, a barista who’s made a home in Berlin for over six years at Companion Tea & Coffee. Her story is one of resilience, connection, and quiet leadership – a testament to the transformative power of coffee. Originally from Toruń, Poland, Olga found in coffee more than just a career; it was a means to build her community in a city that can often feel transient. As the café’s manager, she guides new team members and fosters an atmosphere where people feel seen and appreciated. The regulars who have been returning for years, still ordering their familiar drinks, are a testament to Olga’s dedication to creating a space of warmth in a city known for its anonymity.
Outside the café, Olga finds balance on roller skates. It’s where she resets, recharges, and channels the same determination she brings to her work. Whether guiding her team through a morning rush or gliding across Tempelhofer Feld at sunset, she moves forward with purpose – always finding joy in motion.
Olga’s coffee journey began with a childhood memory of the comforting smell of strong black coffee brewed by her family. It was this sense of comfort that drew her to the industry, and it’s a feeling she strives to replicate for her customers at Companion. “Making people’s drinks the way they like them,” Olga says, “I can feel that it makes them feel seen and cared.”
Her favorite part of the day is the morning shift, watching the city wake up while sipping her first coffee of the day. It’s a moment of peace before the café’s doors open and the day’s activities begin.
Together, they experiment with new coffees, dial in espressos, and challenge each other with latte art.
To stay motivated and inspired, Olga relies on her team. Together, they experiment with new coffees, dial in espressos, and challenge each other with latte art. This camaraderie keeps her passion for coffee alive and growing.
One common misconception about the industry is that baristas are coffee snobs. However, Olga believes that everyone should be able to appreciate both good and bad cups of coffee. For her, it’s not about dictating how someone should drink their coffee but about providing comfort and care through each cup served.
When the café gets intense, Olga stays calm and focused. She appreciates her team’s hard work, especially after a rush, which helps maintain a positive atmosphere during busy shifts. The sense of appreciation she received from her employers at Companion has significantly impacted her confidence and outlook on work.
Roller skating has become a crucial part of Olga’s life, offering a release after long barista shifts. It’s a passion that allows her to recharge mentally and physically, making it an essential aspect of her wellbeing and motivation.
For Olga, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of freedom she experiences on her roller skates or behind the bar.
The connection between skating and being a barista might seem tenuous, but both activities require focus, rhythm, and a love for the flow of movement. For Olga, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of freedom she experiences on her roller skates or behind the bar.
Berlin offers endless inspiration to Olga, with its diverse coffee scene and vibrant culture. She’s excited about the future, looking forward to growing in her career, taking on new projects, and continuing to find joy in motion – whether it’s on her skates or behind the bar.
As Olga continues to create a welcoming space for customers at Companion Tea & Coffee, we can’t help but feel inspired by her dedication, resilience, and passion for connection. Whether you’re a coffee lover in Berlin or simply looking for a touch of comfort in your day, a visit to Companion is sure to leave you feeling seen and cared for.
What about you? Have you found a sense of community through coffee or another passion? Share your stories with us in the comments below!
Questions & Answers
Who is Olga Kolarz and what is her profession?
Olga Kolarz is the founder of Companion Tea & Coffee in Berlin. She is a barista specializing in high-quality tea and coffee.
What makes Companion Tea & Coffee unique?
Companion Tea & Coffee stands out for its focus on ethical sourcing, sustainable practices, and offering a range of rare teas and coffees that are often hard to find.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
