New Westminster barista heading to North American Barista Championship

Holly Kang never expected to make a career of making coffee.

But after eight years of perfecting her craft at Starbucks, she is now one of two Canadian baristas heading to Seattle for the North American Barista Championship.

Holly was selected by her manager, Kerri-Ann St. Germaine, to represent their store.

“Holly has so much passion for coffee and storytelling and our customers,” St. Germaine said.

“It was really an easy choice.”

After rising to the top through multiple rounds of regional competitions, Kang will now be going up against two dozen baristas from across the continent, presenting judges with standard menu drinks as well as a signature drink with a story to go along with it.

Kang says the best part of her job is being part of a cohesive team, working seamlessly even during the morning rush.

“As a shift supervisor, being able to lead a team during the mornings every day, being able to work together to reach our goals, it’s rewarding,” she said.

“I was certified as a coffee master, so that means I’m kind of more knowledgeable about coffee and it’s super fun to share my knowledge as I go.”

The winner of the competition will get a trip to Hacienda Alsacia, the Starbucks research and development farm in Costa Rica.