Bo-Kai Lai (Eli), Chinese Taipei
Enkawa CoffeeRoaster
Please tell us a little about yourself:
My name is Bo-Kai Lai, and 1 run a specialty coffee shop and roasting program in Taiwan. Our shop works with around twenty regular coffee origins, and we also roast for several partner cafes, so cupping is a big part of my daily work.
Before opening my own shop, I worked as a roaster at a coffee roasting factory. That was where I was first introduced to triangular cupping, and where I began training and eventually started competing.
I've been involved in coffee for many years, and over time cupping became my favorite part of it. What I love about the World Cup Tasters Championship is how pure it is - it all comes down to sensory perception, focus, and making the right decision in a very short moment.
Besides competing, I also organize cupping trainings and small competitions for other coffee professionals. Watching people improve their sensory skills and grow as competitors has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.
A fun fact about me is that I'm a big manga fan. I even made a deal with my wife that I wouldn't buy any more manga until l won a competition - so finally bringing some home after a victory felt pretty special.
For me, cupping is more than just a competition. It's a way to understand coffee, differences, and people through flavor.
What are you excited to do while you visit the WCC city?
Although I've already arrived in Bangkok a little early, what I'm really looking forward to is enjoying the city with my family after the competition.
Once I've given everything I have in the competition, I hope we can spend some time exploring the city together - enjoying the scenery, great food, and of course, some relaxing Thai massage.
What are your interests outside of coffee?
Outside of coffee, I enjoy reading manga, playing darts, and badminton.
Manga has always been a big hobby of mine, especially stories about craftsmanship and dedication. Darts and badminton are also great ways for me to relax, stay focused, and keep a bit of a competitive spirit outside of coffee.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WCC?
I would like to thank my family for their quiet and constant support. From the moment I entered the coffee industry, to competing, and even opening my own shop, they have always stood behind me.
I especially want to thank my wife. She not only works her own job, but also shares the pressure of running the business with me, while spending most of her free time taking care of our son.
I often travel for competitions as well, so I'm truly grateful for everything she does.
I would also like to thank my training partnersalso fellow competitors). We are often very tough on each other during practice and work together with high expectations, but we never give up on each other. During preparation for competitions, there are moments when I lose focus or feel uncertain, and I'm grateful to have them by my side through all of it.
