Hiro Lesmana
Indonesia
Common Grounds
How did you get started in coffee?:
I’ve always been interested in coffee since I was a kid. I took a part-time job at Common Grounds while I was still in college because I thought I would be surrounded by coffee, and could push myself to learn everything about it.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
2017 Indonesia Brewers Cup – 3rd Place
2018 Indonesia Brewers Cup Eastern Regional – 1st Place
2018 Indonesia Brewers Cup – 1st Place
What are you excited to do while you are in Brazil?:
Can’t wait to meet the amazing worldwide coffee community and it’s people, who I’ve only seen on a screen at home for all these years. Not to mention the culture and food!
What was your first amazing experience with coffee?:
It was when I learned that coffee doesn’t have to be bitter.
What is your favorite coffee brewing method and why?:
Filter coffee definitely, any pour-over method to be precise. I love to taste the flavors of different origins, with different outcomes using different techniques. It always excites me.
What coffee-producing country most interests or excites you?:
Indonesia! Simply said, potential yet to be uncovered.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
I’m very interested in the things around coffee, which are the community and the F&B industry.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
More knowledgeable than now, but always learning and pushing my boundaries and the coffee industry itself.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the competition?:
My family & girlfriend of course! Thank you for keeping the faith all the time. My coaches and the whole team at Common Grounds.
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