"The tradition of drinking coffee holds significant cultural importance in Indonesia. In smaller regions, locals often enjoy coarsely ground coffee mixed with sugar, brewed with boiling water – a practice known as 'Kopi Tubruk.' People indulge in this traditional brew for various reasons, such as seeking a caffeine boost and socializing. In regions where coffee is grown, it takes on romantic value, especially among farmers.

In recent times, the number of coffee drinkers has been rapidly increasing. While traditional reasons like flavor, enjoyment, and socializing persist, coffee has also become an integral part of people's lifestyles. This shift in consumer behavior has led to a surge in domestic demand, resulting in more coffee being sold within the country than ever before.

The trend of very light-roasted coffee gained attention at the beginning of the Third Wave Coffee era, with people seeking more acidity and complex flavors in their cups. However, especially here in Indonesia, we've realized that this trend has led many drinkers to perceive specialty coffee as overly sour, light, and not enjoyable. Yet, upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that the focus isn't solely on roasting coffee lightly. Instead, it's about finding the perfect balance in a cup and roasting the coffee to its full potential, depending on whether it is used for espresso or filter coffee. The emphasis lies in the development of the coffee itself rather than the 'light' color of the coffee."

What were you doing before joining Common Grounds?
I was still in school and joined Common Grounds as part of my internship program from school. I went to a hospitality school.

How long have you been in the coffee industry? 
Nine years and it is with Common Grounds

When did you first start drinking coffee?
I think when I was 10 and that was instant coffee.

What does your role entail at Common Grounds?
My day-to-day job revolves more around wholesale businesses than roasting. I entered this industry because of my love for the beverage itself and the vibrant community within it. It's not just about coffee; it's about the passionate individuals who dedicate themselves to it. Those who truly love and are passionate about coffee work tirelessly, delve deep into understanding and acquiring more knowledge, and invest their lives into the world of coffee – that's what inspires me.

There are lots of great specialty coffee shops in Indonesia nowadays. How does Common Grounds differentiate itself from others? 
We are focused on the quality of products and services. We built a strong brand by winning coffee competitions to gain customer trust in our product. 

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in pursuing a career in coffee roasting or starting their own roastery?
Before starting your roastery, it's essential to acquire knowledge about the product itself, understand the supply chain, stay informed about industry trends, and recognize your target market. Knowing your customer base is crucial for determining the product you'll be selling.

Can you share a memorable moment or achievement in your career as a coffee professional that stands out to you?
Competition has been a memorable aspect of my coffee journey. I achieved the title of 2018 Indonesia Cup Tasters Champion and the 2022 Indonesia Barista Champion. I am equally pleased to have grown within the company, starting as a barista and now serving as a roastery manager.

You have a very successful track record in competitions. Why did you decide to compete in the first place?
I love challenges, and competition, in particular, provides that extra layer of achievement in my life alongside my day-to-day career. It's highly rewarding for me, a similar feeling to receiving an extra scoop of ice cream from your parents for getting a perfect score. While it may not define everything in your daily life, it certainly adds a satisfying touch.

What’s your favourite way of brewing coffee?
I enjoy both espresso-based and filter coffee. But if I’m brewing myself, then it will be manually brewed.

What is your standard pourover recipe? 
20gr of coffee, Medium-Coarse grind size. 

What’s your favorite region for coffee and why?
I don’t have a favorite region because each region tells a different story and brings out a different characteristic.

How would you describe Common Grounds’ roasting style?
At Common Grounds, our roasting style is meticulous and tailored to each coffee bean. Using top-of-the-line equipment, we create custom roast profiles to highlight unique flavors, from sweet espresso to lively filter coffees. Grounded in respect for bean origin and processing, our approach captures the essence of each bean's journey. Through ongoing experimentation, we push flavor boundaries to deliver exceptional coffees.

What roaster are you using at Common Grounds?
We have invested in top-of-the-line roasting machines, including the Probatone 5 kg and 25 kg models, to ensure precise and consistent roasting.

Which do you enjoy more: roasting, brewing or sourcing?
Sourcing quality coffee beans can be both challenging and rewarding. It involves navigating diverse origins and building relationships with growers, traders, and other key players. It's a crucial aspect of the coffee journey, where every cup tells a story of the land it came from and the hands that nurtured it.

How do you spend your spare time outside of Common Grounds?
Most of the spare time is being used for personal and team growth like competition. But if I have free time, I usually like to just stay at home honestly.

“If I didn’t work in the coffee industry, I would want to be a _______________”
If I didn’t work in the coffee industry, I would want to be a strategic growth specialist in the hospitality or tourism industry.