Jane Espante - United Arab Emirates

2026 - WCIGS - United Arab Emirates

Instagram: @janeespante_

Please tell us a little about yourself:

I worked as a Barista Training and QC Manager, where I focus on developing barista skills, coffee education, and creating coffee and beverage menus. My role allows me to shape both people and products, ensuring quality from training to the final cup.

I’ve been competing since 2023. I started at the national level in the Brewers Cup, where I placed 3rd. I then competed in Coffee in Good Spirits, where I placed 1st, followed by winning the Cezve/ Ibrik National Level and the recently concluded World Cezve / Ibrik Championship, where I became the World Champion.

Competitions raise standards and push innovation. They allow you to discover something within yourself that you didn’t know was there. Beyond growth and discipline, competitions mold you into a better barista and coffee professional. It’s not just about technical skills, it’s about creativity, connection, and using the stage as a platform to tell stories and share your journey through coffee.

I love my coffee black not because I dislike milk-based drinks, but because my tolerance can no longer handle dairy. Haha! I also love creating coffee content with my son, he’s my little barista and biggest inspiration.

I entered the coffee industry through a very good friend and mentor, one of the best coffee professionals in the country, Fred. He opened opportunities for me in the UAE and guided me at the start of my journey. I began working with lattearts then delve deeper into coffee, eventually earning my AST license and CQI Processing Professional license.

What are you excited to do while you visit Brussels?

I’m really excited to experience Brussels beyond the competition stage. I’m looking forward to exploring the city’s coffee culture, visiting local cafés, and learning how different communities approach coffee and hospitality. Brussels has such a rich mix of history, culture, and creativity, and I’m excited to draw inspiration from that.

I’m also excited to connect with fellow competitors and coffee professionals from around the world, those conversations are always one of the most meaningful parts of the championship.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Outside of coffee, I really enjoy spending time with my family, especially creating content and sharing moments with my 8 year old son who is fond of making and brewing coffees.

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

I would like to sincerely thank the team who has supported me from the very beginning—my coach Romeo, the rest of my amazing team Karen, Jhonald, Fred and the entire Archers Coffee team. I’m also deeply grateful to my coach and my husband, who has been my greatest partner both at home and on the competition stage.

None of this would be possible without them. I’m forever thankful for their support and for having them beside me on this journey.