From Hillcrest to London: A Barista’s Journey of Turning Coffee into Community

Johannesburg – At the Starbucks Hillcrest branch, loyal patrons have started bringing their families along.

They are eager for their loved ones to meet Musawenkosi Mosikili, the barista who has recently been crowned Starbucks South Africa’s 2026 National Champion.

The store has been open for just a year, but the way people speak of it suggests a much longer history.

Mosikili earned this title at the National Final, which took place at the Starbucks Reserve in Melrose Arch from June 10 to 12.

In September, he will travel to the Starbucks EMEA Support Centre in Chiswick, London.

The EMEA Championship is set for September 16 to 18.

He will join other finalists from the 11th.

From September 13 to 15, there will be a visit to Amsterdam to tour the Starbucks EMEA Coffee Roasting Plant and understand the company’s commitment to ethical sourcing.

For a young man who joined Starbucks in 2023 and is still perfecting his English, this journey represents a remarkable transformation in a short period.

When asked about his victory, he emphasizes the significance of people over trophies. “Some of life’s most memorable experiences come from feeling acknowledged, heard, and inspired,” he shares.

“With each cup I create, I forge a moment of connection.” This championship has provided him with a broader platform for a practice he engages in every day.

His winning drink embodies this message in liquid form.

He crafted the Caramel Comfort Cold Brew as a tribute to his mother.

It begins with a layer of chocolate sauce drizzled on top, followed by two swirls of caramel lining the cup’s interior, and finishes with the signature cold brew.

For him, that foundation represents his mother’s strength and unwavering support. He fills the ice to the third line.

This measurement is standard at Starbucks, designed to maintain the drink’s temperature and prevent dilution.

To him, that line also represents her, the one who keeps the family grounded amidst chaos.

The drink is topped off with a smooth oat milk cold foam enhanced with two pumps of white chocolate.

It envelops the rich coffee like a sweet embrace, echoing her nurturing nature.

“This beverage is essentially a portrayal of my mom,” he states.

“I’m excited to share this inspiration with the world as the South African Champion.”

He extends the same warmth to his customers, consistently encouraging them to opt for reusable cups because he genuinely cares.

He often reflects on a saying from his culture: it takes a village to raise a child.

His village has come together in support of him.

Mentors and fellow partners, including two former EMEA title winners from South Africa, have rallied around him.

Teddy Nzama and Phuti Mmotla offer coaching within the local market, reminding baristas that deferred dreams are not denied dreams.

Kabelo Jori, the previous year’s National Champion, remains part of this supportive circle, providing insight on the experience Musa is about to undertake.

Ishan Natalie, affectionately known as Mr. Miyagi, also supports the team as they prepare for London. Now, with the strength of his village, Musa is set for his journey to London.

“Representing South Africa and embodying the spirit of Ubuntu is a monumental milestone for me,” he shares.

He never envisioned this path.

“I’ve always wanted to share my story with the world,” he reflects.

“I just didn’t expect it to happen so quickly.”

We asked Musa a few questions, and here’s what he shared.

Sustainability is a key focus at Starbucks. What are your thoughts on it as a Champion?

“Starbucks’ dedication to ethical sourcing, quality practices, and sustainability is truly motivating.

“The impact made within the first ten feet of the coffee supply chain—farmers, farmworkers, and millers—is invaluable.

“As representatives at the last ten feet, I take joy in knowing our farmers, coffee communities, and everyone involved are well-supported.

“I always encourage our customers to use reusable cups. It benefits the planet by reducing waste, saving trees, and decreasing pollution.”

What advice would you give to other partners looking to refine their craft?

“This journey has shown me that nothing is truly impossible.

“What seems difficult at first often takes time and practice to master.

“To every partner aspiring to grow and inspire others, I ask three questions: Why not? Why not you? Why not now?”

How has this experience changed your perspective on your future at Starbucks?

“Starbucks believed in me when others had given up hope.

“When I faced financial challenges during my university journey, I felt stuck.

“Little did I know, Starbucks had other plans for my future.

“It seems I will continue pursuing my passions—crafting and leading—for many more years ahead.”

Share something we might not know about you.

“Many partners see me as chatty and outgoing, even outside of work.

“What they don’t realize is that I feel a genuine sense of joy around them.

“Outside of work, I can be reserved in certain situations.

“But at Starbucks, I feel acknowledged, valued, and inspired, which allows me to discover new facets of myself.”

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