The winners are announced.

From coffee enthusiast to Laos’ first barista on the world stage

From a simple love of coffee to becoming Laos’ first barista to compete in the prestigious International Aeropress Championship 2024, the journey of Mr Soubin Phetsomphou is nothing short of inspiring.

The Lao Aeropress Championship 2024.

Before finding his true calling in coffee, 44-year-old Soubin was deeply involved in the car accessories business, specialising in car audio equipment. His expertise earned him recognition as a four-time car audio champion, and in 2014 he broke the world record at the DBL Maxi car audio competition, becoming Thailand’s national champion.
Soubin was also a prominent figure in rugby, representing Laos in the Rugby Asia Five Nations from 2009 to 2011. His leadership as captain led the national team to win the championship for three consecutive years.
In addition, his passion for cooking led him to open a small restaurant, where he could indulge his love for creating new dishes.
Soubin’s journey into the world of coffee began as a daily coffee drinker. But when the Covid pandemic hit in 2020 and lockdowns were enforced, his usual coffee outings came to a halt.
“I couldn’t go out to drink coffee, so I decided to buy a coffee maker,” Soubin said. “I started learning from friends and social media how to make coffee for myself.”
Through trial and error, he perfected his brewing skills. “I kept experimenting until I got the taste I wanted. But I never stopped searching for new flavours and coffee recipes to improve my skills. I love sharing these discoveries with friends,” he added.
His coffee-making hobby quickly evolved into a passion, leading him to explore more advanced brewing techniques. In 2022, Soubin took a significant step forward by opening a mini café and bar in Dongnaxok Tai village, Sikhottabong district, Vientiane.
Earlier this year, a friend encouraged him to enter the Lao Aeropress Championship 2024. Drawn to challenges and driven by his impressive background in sports and business, Soubin embraced the opportunity.
“I was fortunate to have a great trainer who is both a friend and a coach. He was the winner of the Lao Aeropress Championship in 2022, and he guided me in learning new barista techniques,” Soubin said.
In July, Soubin’s hard work paid off when he won the Lao Aeropress Championship, where competitors had to extract coffee using an Aeropress machine. His victory secured him a place to represent Laos at the world Aeropress Championship, taking place this month in Lisbon, Portugal, on September 20-21.
“I’m thrilled and excited to have won the national championship. But at the same time, I was disappointed that the organising committee in Laos couldn’t support my participation in the world competition due to financial and other constraints,” he said.
Undeterred, Soubin decided to fund his trip to Portugal himself. “My goal is to put Laos on the global coffee map. This journey isn’t just about my personal achievement; it’s about representing my country and inspiring others to pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional they seem.”

Soubin Phetsomphou (centre) and other competition winners receive their prizes.

Looking ahead, whether he wins or not, Soubin is committed to sharing his experiences with young, aspiring baristas in Laos.
“When I return from the competition, I want to pass on what I’ve learned and offer advice to others interested in this and other coffee-related competitions,” he said.
Soubin’s journey as a barista is a testament to his perseverance and passion. As he steps onto the global stage at the International Aeropress Championship, he carries the hopes of a nation with him, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
“I believe that Lao people are talented, but we still face limitations in funding and support, especially in the coffee sector,” he said.
Join us in supporting Soubin as he embarks on this exciting journey. Follow his story and celebrate the unique talent that Laos is contributing to the global coffee scene.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
 (Latest Update September 10, 2024)