Wojtek Bialczak
Germany
Five Elephant Coffee
Please tell us a little about yourself:
I am a family man, and proud dad to our 2 year old, Stas. Originally from Poland, but living in Berlin, Germany) for 4 and a half years now. I started my coffee journey around 7 years ago back in Warsaw, where I’m from. I’ve been the Head Roaster at Five Elephant for the last 2 and a half years. In my free time (if have any), I like skateboarding, but I try to spend as much time as I can with my little family.
What are you excited to do in Boston?:
I would love to see a NBA game.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
German Barista Championship 2019 – 1st Place
Polish Barista Championship 2018 – 3rd Place, 2017 – 3rd Place, 2016
Polish Brewers Cup 2018 – finalist; 2017, 2015, 2014 – finalist
Fushan Barista Cup 2018 in Hainan, China
How do you see the coffee industry changing in the future?:
This days progress is so fast that it’s really hard to predict. I see new processing methods, new varietals, but most of all, I’m really excited about more control in coffee brewing.
Where do you see yourself in five years?:
Hopefully still in coffee – haha. It would be nice to be where I am now, as I think stability is necessary to focus on progression.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
I’ve been skateboarding since I was 8. Recently less, but I’m trying to get back on it.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WBC?:
My wife, and the Five Elephant team.
My sponsors: Urnex, La Marzocco, Coffee Desk, Oatly
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