Starting out as a café waiter in 2010, Port Elizabeth-born barista and coffee art master Sisa Mapetu finally has his very own coffee shop.
Aptly named The Barista Sisa, this caffeine lover's haven was opened in February and offers customers sweet coffee blends, artistic cappuccinos and unforgettable charm.
"Since I started my journey, having my own coffee shop has been a dream of mine and I can't believe that I'm finally here," said Mapetu, 33, who became a waiter after he was no longer able to fund his industrial engineering studies.
He has gone on to compete in the Speciality Coffee Association of Southern Africa's national and provincial barista championships, being named Nelson Mandela Bay's top barista in 2011, and winning third spot in the 2014 nationals.
"I knew nothing about coffee when I started as a waiter, but the aroma is what drew me in.
"I got a really great opportunity when the café I worked for decided to send me on a barista training course. And that's how my journey with coffee started," said Mapetu.
Described as an authentically African coffee shop, The Barista Sisa is situated in Opposite the Arch, an artisanal hub on Makhanda's Somerset Street.
Joining forces with Opposite the Arch's Simon Roberts to make his dream become a reality, Mapetu said it was an honour to have been given this opportunity.
"I've been wanting this for so long so I'm going to grab it with both hands. I'm going to keep working extra hard and I'd love for others, especially within the industry, to be inspired by my journey," said Mapetu.
From smooth and sweet Ethiopian espresso blends to chai lattes, iced coffees and popular cappuccino creations, The Barista Sisa is an explosion of coffee goodness, showcasing Mapetu's impressive coffee art and his cheerful personality.
"The thing I love most about my job is the people," he said.
"I love that I get to make their days a little happier with each good cup of coffee.
"Their smiles and the appreciation they show makes me love what I do."
Roberts, who met Mapetu as a Rhodes University student in 2013, said he had no idea that six years later they would be business partners.
"When I met Sisa I knew nothing about coffee, I was still drinking my filtered coffee and it was Sisa who introduced me to the good stuff," said Roberts.
"He's the best barista in town; the interaction with his customers and the personal touch he adds makes a big difference and people don't forget Sisa."
