Kiwi barista wins MONIN Creativity Cup Final – BeanScene

New Zealand’s Hiroko Hanna Teramoto has been crowned the Grand Champion of the 2025 MONIN Creativity Cup, just weeks after winning the Aotearoa Barista Championship for a third time.

The Mojo Coffee barista pipped national winners from 14 others countries to the post to take the top spot at the finals of the international competition, which were held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 9 September.

The theme of this year’s finale was ‘An alchemy of flavours’ and Hiroko’s winning creation was a tribute to her father’s 80th birthday called Pink Alchemy. Featuring MONIN Rose and Cherry Blossom syrups alongside other ingredients including miso, kefir, and espresso, the drink represented the birthday celebrations that took place under cherry blossom trees.

“Coffee is more than a craft. It’s a language of memory and emotion,’ says Hiroko.

Each year, the MONIN Creativity Cup aims to aid the growth of the beverage industry and individuals that work within it. Competitors are invited to push the boundaries of coffee to create a unique coffee mocktail that showcases innovation and creativity.

“The MONIN Cup is about inspiring the next generation,” says Lisa Walker, MONIN NZ Brand Manager.

“We’re thrilled to see Hanna showcase her skills and passion to the world. This is a huge moment for both her and the NZ coffee community.”

Australian Champion Vlatislav ‘Vlasto’ Bartoska of Ona Coffee Sydney also competed in the finals.