Our report, Joseph Tahinduka met Patricia and brought this interview. Awori Patricia is a 3rd-year student of Food Science and Technology. She is also the Vice President of the Kyambogo University Coffee Association. She emerged the winner of the Interuniversity barista competition, an event organised by the Uganda Coffee Development Authority to promote coffee consumption in Uganda and in the diaspora.

How tough was the competition?

Quite tough! But by the Grace of God, I  emerged victorious after defeating competitors from Makerere University, Uganda Christian University, Makerere University Business School among others in the events that were hosted by Mbarara University of Science and Technology. Awori Patricia told our team that it was an amazing experience seeing herself a champion in the coffee industry.

What is Barista about?

The word barista comes from Italian, where it means a male or female “bartender” who typically works behind a counter, serving hot drinks (such as espresso), cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks. It involves mastering coffee extraction techniques that are high-end skills on the market.

What are your future aspirations in the coffee industry?

After my undergraduate degree, I hope to enrol for Food Engineering and study more about the different models of coffee machines on the world market, how to repair the equipment to build a new prototype of an expresso machine that is better than the current models.

How has Kyambogo University shaped your ambitions?

When I came to Kyambogo university, I joined the Kyambogo University Coffee Association, which shaped my understanding of the coffee industry. I got contacts at the Uganda Coffee Development Authority that were helpful in barista training.

In that respect, my three years at the university have imparted me, my skills and career and will have an everlasting impact on my future.

What advice do you give to the students out there with big dreams?

I encourage students to remain focused on their academics while engaging in activities of student associations so as to get leadership and other career-relevant skills.