Penny Chalkiadaki , Greece
Taf
Please tell us a little about yourself:
I am currently working for Taf coffee , Athens, Greece . I have been involved in the industry for more than 17 years . It all started as a simple job to do for a living but then I fell in love with coffee ! The more I was learning the deeper the passion for this . Then I worked at an exhibition and completely by chance I discovered the existence of competitions . Since that day I have been dreaming of myself being on stage . Since day one barista competition was the one for me and I was patiently waiting for the correct moment . The right timing was back in 2022 when I first competed and ended up with the 4th place. Then came back even more hungry and finished 2nd , runner up champion. This year was my momentum ,I worked methodically and managed to fulfil my lifetime goal!Represent Greece in the world barista championship. If I had to say something really funny about me , is that when something steals my heart I will fight till the end to make it happen . I used to be football player and nothing could ever stop me . Same thing for me in all kind of championships !!
What are you excited to do while you are in Milan?
I am so excited for finally competing ,that at this point I cannot think of travelling or visiting any other places or spots . I will definitely visit once again coffee shops , Duomo and biking around ! It’s not the first time I will visit Milan , so I will keep creating memories there.
What are your interests outside of coffee?
I recently discovered Padel and once again I want to keep on improving and becoming better and better at this . So I have been practicing with my coach and playing tournaments with my partner.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
I would like to thank Grigoria ,my friend ,colleague and coach , for always being there for me . For helping me make my dream come true . We’ve spent together countless hours of talking and practicing and no one else could stand me when I am anxious and nervous . She knows what it needs to be done for making me give the best Penny on stage.
