Vitali Filmanovich
Belarus
Single Step Coffee co.
Please tell us a little about yourself:
One of the pioneers and promoters of the Belarus specialty coffee scene. Co-creator of some country’s landmark coffee places and projects. Barista-trainer, roastmaster, Q-grader. 2018 Belarus Barista Champion’s coach. Ultimate coffee-lover.
How did you get started in coffee?:
Accidentally :) One day I was herding some goats in the Kaffa foothills… just joking, guys ;)
Actually, I was young and in need of money, I was 17 and the first cafe I worked for served commercial Italian blend… some years later I set up the first specialty coffee shop in Belarus.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
2016 Belarus Cup Tasters Championship – 1st Place
2018 Belarus Brewers Cup – 1st Place
What are you excited to do while you are in Brazil?:
Visiting farms and Copacabana of course!
What was your first amazing experience with coffee?:
Coffee is a non-stop amazing experience!
What is your favorite coffee brewing method and why?:
V60—it was the first ever brewing method I had in Belarus.
What coffee-producing country most interests or excites you?:
Bolivia and Indonesia. This regions will show us a great quality growth next few years.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
Music and travelling.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
Travelling around the world.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the competition?:
Daria, my coach and fiancee :)
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