Tan Yi Xin, Singapore
Starbucks Coffee Singapore Ptd Ltd
Please tell us a little about yourself:
I'm currently working as a Store Manager at Starbucks Singapore and have been in the industry for five years. I enjoy the opportunity for human interaction (something I craved sorely after the pandemic-era) that working in a cafe environment provides. I also love how being a store manager provides a chance to nurture new part-timers in the barista craft and also to ignite their passion for the specialty coffee industry.
I started competing as it was an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and nerd out about coffee together over training sessions. Additionally, I wanted to show the teens working with me that there was more to the industry than the everyday routine of serving customers.
What are you excited to do while you are in Geneva?
Is it too predictable to say that I'm excited to explore the local coffee scene? Thsi will be my first time visiting Geneva, so I would love to indulge in touristy pursuits such as visiting Plainpalais of 'Frankenstein' fame too.
What are your interests outside of coffee?
Before I became a coffee nerd, I was an English literature nerd. When I'm not brewing coffee you'll probably find me with my head stuck in a book. My current favourite (living) authors are Amanda Lee Koe, Nicholson Baker, Julian Gough and Daryl Qilin Yam.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
I would like to thank my partner (Ralph), family and close friends for their love and understanding during this period. Of course, all this would not be possible without the dedication of my coach (Jason), Starbucks Coffee Singapore and Singapore Coffee Association for the time and resources invested in my development. I am incredibly grateful for their support, without which I would not have reached the world stage.
