Kateryna Vasylets' remarkable journey in the realm of coffee, from humble beginnings to international recognition, epitomizes dedication and passion. As both a seasoned barista and an integral manager at Po drodze, a quaint cafe nestled in Warsaw, she has cultivated an environment where exceptional service and quality coffee converge. Her recent victory as the Polish Cup Tasters Champion, followed by a commendable appearance among the top 50 at the World Championship in Geneva, highlights her unwavering commitment to the craft. This narrative delves into the experiences that shaped her career, her philosophy on customer interaction, and her continuous drive to refine her skills within the dynamic coffee industry.
Kateryna's initial foray into the coffee world was sparked by the profound impact of excellent service and superior coffee during visits to local establishments. This experience ignited a desire within her to become the very reason patrons returned, to be the individual whose carefully prepared cup brightened their day. Her career trajectory eventually led her to Po drodze, where she has spent the last five years. More than just a workplace, it has become a cornerstone of her life, fostering deep connections with regular customers and providing a platform for mentoring budding baristas. It is here that she has also honed her competitive edge, propelling her onto both national and global stages.
Reflecting on her early memories, Kateryna fondly recalls the pervasive aroma of coffee brewing in her childhood home every Saturday morning—a simple yet profound introduction to the beverage. Her professional path, however, was not linear. After completing her university studies, she relocated to Poland, navigating various employments, including a stint in a car airbag factory and a solo role in a vegan restaurant, before discovering her true calling. Her initial barista position marked a pivotal moment, opening doors to diverse coffee varieties, brewing techniques, and a wealth of knowledge. This period also introduced her to the exhilarating, albeit stressful, world of coffee championships, setting the foundation for her current standing.
At Po drodze, Kateryna views her role as multifaceted. Beyond crafting beverages, she is deeply involved in ensuring the smooth operation of the cafe, from managing daily tasks to seeking and training new team members. The cafe, which she affectionately calls her 'happy place,' has witnessed her through both triumphs and challenges over the past half-decade, shaping her into the professional she is today. She cherishes the weekend bustle, engaging in conversations with loyal customers, exchanging embraces, and even indulging in her adoration for dogs. Her team is more than colleagues; they are a supportive family who believe in her aspirations, motivating her to consistently deliver her best.
Kateryna's ambition for her customers extends beyond merely serving a good cup of coffee; she aims to offer an experience that can uplift their spirits, even on a challenging day. For her, the essence lies in flavor and balance, with the ultimate gratification stemming from a customer's declaration that her coffee is the best they have ever tasted. Her favorite part of the day is the quiet morning hour before the cafe opens, a peaceful time for personal reflection, enjoying her chosen music, and perfecting her espresso. This serene period allows her to prepare not just the cafe, but herself, for the day ahead.
Maintaining motivation and continuously refining her coffee-making expertise can be demanding, especially when trapped in routine. However, Kateryna finds rejuvenation and growth through participation in coffee competitions. These events, along with the rigorous preparation they demand, provide invaluable opportunities for skill development and personal advancement. She actively challenges common misconceptions about the industry, particularly the notion that coffee preparation is simple. She educates curious customers on the myriad factors influencing coffee taste, such as weather conditions and processing methods, dispelling the myth that fruit or chocolate notes require artificial additives. This eagerness to share knowledge underscores her dedication to demystifying the art of coffee.
Her competitive achievements are particularly noteworthy. Her debut in the Cup Tasters Championship was a significant undertaking, requiring intense preparation that involved weeks of dedicated coffee tasting. This rigorous training culminated in her claiming the national title, a testament to her perseverance. Her subsequent participation in the World Championship in Geneva, where she placed among the top 50, was an exhilarating experience that she describes as a profound honor. Sharing the stage with fellow champions, who were both inspiring and supportive, has fueled her desire to return and excel in future competitions. Kateryna firmly believes in the power of self-trust, consistency, confidence, and enjoyment as cornerstones for success in coffee championships.
Beyond her coffee endeavors, Kateryna embraces a range of passions that provide balance and enrichment to her life. She finds solace and connection with nature in the mountains, offering a peaceful escape from daily demands. Additionally, her engagement in martial arts, specifically Brazilian jiu-jitsu and boxing, sharpens her focus and strategic thinking. These diverse pursuits contribute to her holistic approach to life, mirroring the precision and dedication she brings to her coffee craft. Her preferred coffee choices—filter coffee over espresso, and black coffee over milk-based drinks—reflect a purist's appreciation for the nuances of the bean. She champions iced filter coffee as an underrated beverage and the Delter as an underappreciated brewing device, both of which she utilizes at home. For any coffee enthusiast, she highly recommends visiting MAME in Switzerland, and she holds a special affection for Kyiv, Ukraine, praising its vibrant and welcoming coffee community that always makes her feel at home.