Congratulations
1st Placed Barista - Elizabeth Sam (Nambawan Cafe)
2nd Place - Sir Aron (Iririki Island Resort )
3rd Place Simon Olul (Cafe Deli)

Media Relase
WINNERS ARE GRINNERS IN THE HAPPIEST COUNTRY ON EARTH

Winner of the Vanuatu Barista national championships, Elizabeth Sam from the small island of Tongoa has a grin from ear to ear on being presented with her prize today in Port Vila, Vanuatu.

First prize in the National competition means a return trip to Sydney on Air Vanuatu with two nights at Four Points Sheraton and being hosted around some of the best cafes in Sydney.

“ I almost didn’t enter, I was so nervous and this is the first time we have ever done anything like this in Vanuatu and I didn’t know if I could do it” said Elizabeth aged 27, “my friends were too nervous to enter, but I really wanted the chance to learn something new.”

From a tough field of entrants and facing international judging and rules, Elizabeth proved her skills in coffee making were overall the best in the country and she has the certificate and the title to prove it.

“ On behalf of the Vanuatu Hotels and Resorts Association I’d like to congratulate Elizabeth on her achievement and wish her every success in her career in hospitality as a fully recognized barista” said Mr Tony Burns, Chairman of the VHRA and one of the organizers behind the inaugural event.

“The level of participation was excellent and standards were so high, Elizabeth has done deservedly well, I’d also like to thank all the competitors, judges and sponsors for their efforts and commitment to making the event so successful” continued Tony.

Entrants participated in a week’s lead up of barista jam sessions run by international barista judges Rob and Alex Forsyth held at the national tourism and hospitality school and the competition was held in the grounds of Le Lagon where the public could watch and enjoy.

The event was a first for Vanuatu and organizers have been so happy with the outcome it is promising to be an annual event on the Vanuatu calendar.

Elizabeth had never entered a coffee making competition or any kind of international competition before. A young mother and with only 18 months experience in the cafe industry with Nambawan Café, Port Vila, she had thanks only for others “ I was encouraged by my partner who was a waiter and had traveled to Australia many years ago, so I am really happy to be going too, I feel I proud to have won”.

All entrants received great prizes and immeasurable experience. Everyone who likes a coffee in Vanuatu has been a winner with this event.

Further information:
Joanne Wade poppys_admin@vanuatu.com.vu or Mr Tony Burns, Le Lagon PH: (678) 22313 ex 201