Bene Sanchez - Philippines

2026 - WBrC - Honduras

Instagram: @simon_gautherin

Please tell us a little about yourself:

I’m a home brewer who wants to share the gift of coffee to the world. This is my second year competing, and my first time on the World stage. I got into competing because I love the art of brewing coffee, and I think this format is one way to showcase that. I got into specialty coffee from a life changing pourover in 2016. I’ve been eager to learn more about coffee ever since—from working part time in a coffee shop, to taking classes, and then now currently running a home cafe that opens twice a week. I feel like all these different parts of my journey have led me to pursuing coffee to this level, and share the joy that I discovered in coffee.

What are you excited to do while you visit Brussels?

It's my first time to go to Brussels so l'm excited to try the food, the coffee shops of course, the culture, and the architecture too!

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I love music, I play multiple instruments including the drums and keys. I love food and cooking. I also took postgraduate studies in theology although I didn't finish it.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WCC?

My wife who has been my biggest supporter. My parents who allowed me to pursue coffee. And my team who has helped bring the best out of me.