Ryan Wibawa and Wisnu Putro Head for Indonesia Coffee Events (ICE) 2018 Finals

One of Starbucks Indonesia’s partners, Ryan Wibawa, became the first winner at Indonesia Brewing Championship (IBrC) 2018.

Two of Starbucks Indonesia’s partners (employees), Ryan Wibawa and Wisnu Putro competed well in Indonesia Coffee Events (ICE) for West Region held in Jakarta on February 8 – 11, 2018.

Coffee is the core of our company. Most recently, two of Starbucks Indonesia’s partners (what we call our employees) Ryan Wibawa and Wisnu Putro have successfully competed in Indonesia Coffee Events (ICE) for West Region held in Jakarta on February 8 – 11, 2018. Ryan emerged as first winner for Indonesia Brewing Championship (IBrC), while Wisnu was top five in the Indonesia Cup Tasters Championship (ICTC). Both were granted the chance to compete in the final national level in July.

Ryan joined Starbucks in 2011. His passion and enthusiasm for all things coffee led him to where he is right now. “It feels great to be on the stage again and meet with Indonesia’s best baristas. I am humbled and happy to be able to go to the finals in July, considering that all participants were very skilful and knowledgeable,” said Ryan. “All the time and practice that have been put into this journey definitely paid off” added Ryan.

Ryan Wibawa and Wisnu Putro have won accolades in Indonesia Coffee Events (ICE).

Ryan, who favours the sip of West Java coffee, practiced intensively three times a week and even on his days off to prepare for the competition. Two years ago he earned first place honours and became the 2016 Indonesia Brewer Champion. Adding on to his list of accolades, he also brought home the third-place trophy from the China and Asia Pacific (CAP) region’s Starbucks Barista Championships. Based on his perfect execution, personal storytelling and knowledge of coffee sourcing, his vast experience paved the way for him to compete in The World Barista Championship in Dublin, Ireland back in 2017.

“Each coffee has its own unique characteristics. My passion for coffee has led me to be the best in what I do. I can’t wait to compete in the finals in July and give the best.”

- Wisnu Putri, top five Indonesia Cup Tasters Championship (ICTC), Starbucks Indonesia.

Similarly, Wisnu is also qualified to compete in the ICTC finals next July. Wisnu Putro, a six-year Starbucks partner, is currently the Store Manager for Starbucks Seibu, Grand Indonesia. He loves to explore coffee from different regions. “Each coffee has its own unique characteristics. My passion for coffee has led me to be the best in what I do. I can’t wait to compete in the finals in July and give the best,” said Wisnu.

Both Ryan and Wisnu are active in mentoring as well as inspiring their colleagues to become the greatest baristas. Starbucks Master Class program is an ongoing program in several Starbucks stores held on a monthly basis for customers, led by curated baristas whom Ryan and Wisnu have mentored. Countless Starbucks partners have graduated from Starbucks Coffee Master program each year, and they continue to inspire other partners to be knowledgeable and passionate about coffee and what they do.