DSE News Network
Johannesburg, South Africa – The highly anticipated Annual Schools Barista Competition returns on 31 July 2025, celebrating the talent, resilience, and growth of learners with learning disabilities. The event will be hosted at Randeor School in Winchester Hills, Johannesburg South, bringing together 21 competitors from 6 different schools across Gauteng.
This inspiring event is the culmination of a 6-month barista training program run by Thando Coffee Company, specifically designed for learners with special education needs. The competition offers these young baristas a platform to showcase their skills, build self-confidence, and gain valuable exposure to the hospitality and coffee industry.
“The Annual Schools Barista Competition is more than just a contest,” says Khulekani Mpala, Founder of Thando Coffee Company. “It’s a celebration of inclusion, potential, and the power of meaningful skills development. Each learner walks away not just with a certificate or a prize, but with a belief in their own capabilities.”
The competition is proudly supported by an incredible network of partners, including: Specialty Coffee Association of Southern Africa, Equiserve, TriBeCa Coffee, Seam Coffee, Nestlé, Professional, Ultimate Water, Dewfresh, and Mr. Wedu Hikwa — all committed to promoting
accessibility and growth within the coffee industry.
Thando Coffee Company’s schools program equips learners with foundational barista skills, including espresso preparation, milk steaming, hygiene standards, and customer service. The competition represents a key milestone in their journey toward employment readiness and personal development.
Members of the media, coffee professionals, educators, and the general public are invited to attend and witness the exceptional work being done to empower the next generation of baristas.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, 31 July 2025
Venue: Randeor School, Winchester Hills, Johannesburg South
Time: 08:30 – 13:00
For media inquiries, interviews, or attendance confirmation, please contact:
Khulekani Mpala
Email: info@thandocoffeeco.co.za
Cell: 078 570 3402
Website: www.thandocoffeeco.co.za
