This is worth savoring: Anzhelika Rybak’s story isn’t just about espresso shots or latte art—it’s about resilience, identity, and the quiet power of a cup of coffee in wartime. As Ukraine’s coffee culture evolves under relentless bombardment, Rybak has become a symbol of how passion and purpose can transform a beverage into a lifeline. From a street-side barista to a national champion, her journey reflects a nation redefining itself through coffee.
Rybak’s career began in Poltava, where she traded ballroom dancing for barista training, eventually leading her to found KoHo, a coffee chain that evolved from takeaway shops to curated cafés and roasteries. Her path wasn’t linear—she started as a dancer, then a barista, then a mentor, blending leadership with education. Today, she balances managing cafés, training baristas, and supporting Ukrainian roasters, all while representing her country on the global stage. Her 2025 victory at the Ukrainian Barista Championship and subsequent World Finals appearance in Milan weren’t just personal triumphs; they were acts of defiance. “Coffee is a symbol of warmth, hope, and connection,” she says, capturing a culture that thrives despite war.
What sets Rybak apart is her refusal to let chaos derail progress. During the war, Ukrainian cafés became sanctuaries—places where people gathered, worked, and found solace. “Coffee is a point of calm after attacks,” she explains. This duality—ritual and refuge—defines Ukraine’s coffee scene. The country’s shift from imported beans to locally roasted coffee mirrors its broader cultural awakening. “We’re not just surviving; we’re shaping our own identity,” Rybak notes, highlighting how coffee has become a tool for resistance and pride.
Her achievements are a testament to collective effort. The World Finals weren’t just about skill—they were about solidarity. Rybak’s team, including COFFEETONE and SCA Ukraine, pooled resources to fund her journey, proving that coffee communities can unite across borders. “You don’t go alone to the World Championship,” she says. “You go with a country.”
Ukraine isn’t just a war zone—it’s a hub of innovation, passion, and quiet determination.
What does the global coffee world need to know? Ukraine isn’t just a war zone—it’s a hub of innovation, passion, and quiet determination. Rybak’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest times, coffee can be a beacon.
What’s the most powerful role coffee plays in Ukraine today?
Questions & Answers
What inspired Anzhelika Rybak to become a barista?
Anzhelika was inspired by her love for coffee and the creativity involved in crafting drinks. She wanted to combine her passion with her talent for art, leading her to pursue a career as a barista.
Where is KoHo located?
KoHo is located in Poltava, Ukraine. It’s a popular coffee shop known for its quality brews and unique atmosphere, making it a local favorite.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
