Sheese

Mariah Vella’s Coffee Philosophy: How Malta’s Café Became a Community Hub

Mariah Vella’s Coffee Philosophy: How Malta’s Café Became a Community Hub

Here’s what you need to know: Mariah Vella isn’t just running a café—she’s curating an experience. As store manager at COFFEE & strangers in Malta, she’s turned a small space into a sanctuary for connection, creativity, and curiosity. Her approach blends Italian influence with Maltese grit, crafting a place where coffee isn’t just a drink but a catalyst for meaningful interactions. Mariah’s journey began in Milan, where she discovered the quiet power of a well-made espresso. The café there became her daily anchor, teaching her that coffee is about more than beans—it’s about the rituals, the people, and the stories…
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Defne Ceyda Okay: Coffee’s Quiet Revolution in Istanbul

Defne Ceyda Okay: Coffee’s Quiet Revolution in Istanbul

Time to spill: Defne Ceyda Okay isn’t just shaping Türkiye’s coffee scene—she’s rewriting its rules. As Oatly’s Barista Market Developer, World Coffee Championships judge, and soon-to-be SCA Trainer, she’s a force of curiosity, precision, and relentless connection. Her story isn’t about shortcuts or hype—it’s about turning coffee into a language of discovery, one cup at a time. Defne’s journey began in 2015, when an AeroPress order at her local café sparked a decade-long obsession. What started as a curious sip evolved into a career that spans barista work, roasting, training, and event curation. She’s rebuilt Türkiye’s specialty coffee culture from…
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Unleashing the Science of Coffee with Tia Grahn of MNEN Coffee

Unleashing the Science of Coffee with Tia Grahn of MNEN Coffee

Barista, academic, entrepreneur—Tia Grahn wears many hats. Based in Helsinki, she's transformed her passion for coffee into a career that defies convention, delving deep into its science, competition, and entrepreneurial realm. With over eight years in the specialty coffee industry, Tia has earned two Finnish championship titles (2024 Finnish Cup Tasters Championship and Finnish Moccamaster Championship), published research on brewing water's impact on coffee, and contributed to Coffee People Zine. Yet, her most significant achievement might be her drive to remain a curious explorer of coffee—a trait that sets her apart in the industry. Growing up with a love for…
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Turin’s Orso Laboratorio Caffè: A Haven for Coffee Enthusiasts, Led by Luana Lazzarone

Turin’s Orso Laboratorio Caffè: A Haven for Coffee Enthusiasts, Led by Luana Lazzarone

Luana Lazzarone's passion for coffee began in her grandparents' shop in Turin, Italy. Nine years later, she continues to shape the city's specialty coffee scene as the manager of Orso Laboratorio Caffè. Her focus on people, clarity, and daily consistency sets her apart as a barista and trainer. Orso Laboratorio Caffè is home to two locations that Luana runs with precision and passion. She balances service with team leadership, ensuring her team members feel valued and supported. Luana's technical skills are backed by her graduation from SCA Professional courses, and her experiences in competitions have marked significant moments in her…
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From Chef to Barista Champion: Laura Metcalfe’s Coffee Journey

From Chef to Barista Champion: Laura Metcalfe’s Coffee Journey

Meet Laura Metcalfe, a coffee freelancer in London who's been making waves in the specialty coffee scene for over a decade. Her passion for sharing coffee experiences with others is infectious and her competitive spirit has earned her multiple national championship titles. Let's dive into her inspiring story. Laura's love affair with coffee began at home, brewing instant coffee as a 10-year-old. But it wasn't until she tasted an Ethiopian Yirgacheffe six years ago that her passion for specialty coffee truly ignited. This delicate, tea-like cup opened her eyes to the world of complex flavors that coffee could offer, and…
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Discover Isaiah Sheese’s Coffee World: A Peek into the U.S. Barista Champ’s Passions and Rituals

Discover Isaiah Sheese’s Coffee World: A Peek into the U.S. Barista Champ’s Passions and Rituals

Ready to immerse yourself in the world of a coffee champion? Let's dive deep into the life of Isaiah Sheese, the U.S. Barista Champion who captured the title in 2023. From his coffee beginnings in Oklahoma to his triumph at the World Barista Championship, we uncover his favorite foods, coffee heroes, and personal rituals. Isaiah's Favorite Coffee Event: The World Barista Championship (WBC) is his pick for a reason—it's a global celebration of passion, dedication, creativity, and camaraderie in the coffee industry. The WBC is more than just a competition; it's a platform for connecting with fellow enthusiasts from around…
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