MARGARET CHISANGA
LUSAKA
BORNFACE Mwanza on Thursday was named Diageo Bartender Mix Off competition winner, after an intense final’s competition that had Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba in attendance.
Mr Sikumba, accompanied by other dignitaries, had an opportunity to witness the Top three contenders: Mwanza, Davison Banda who got second prize and Charles Phiri who got third prize, mix off different cocktails according to the themes presented by the competition rules.
Mr Sikumba encouraged all the finalists and participants who had fallen off in the previous stages, saying they had all acquired the skills of providing excellent service, layered with creativity and professionalism, which will catapult the country’s tourism status to compete equally with the best in the world.
Mr Sikumba said it is vital that Zambians get the training and expertise they need to provide international standards to tourists and grow the dynamics of tourism in the country.
“This is why we are grateful to Diageo Bar Academy and the process they have taken our team through. These are talented young men and women who have spent months practicing and understanding the different ways that service and professionalism keep tourists longer with every visit,” he said.
Mr Sikumba urged Diageo to continue offering more opportunities for local talent to join the academy.
The main challenge for the top 3 contestants was themed “Taste of your country: Using John Walker and 3 ingredients from your country to create a signature coctail” and required each one to pick local product as a key ingrediant of their respective cocktail.
And Managing Director, Diageo Southern Africa, Andrew Ross described the Mix- Off Competition as a platform for growth, recognition and inspiration.
“This thrilling event gathers the most skilled bartenders from across the nation, all vying for the top honor and an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise on a national platform. The competition is part of Diageo’s commitment to fostering bartending excellence, creativity, and providing a stage for talented individuals to shine,” he said.
Mealyn Joyce, Senior Reserve Brand Ambassador said the competition celebrates the remarkable talent within the local bartending community and offers the skilled individuals a chance to showcase their abilities on a national level.
According to statement, the Judging Criteria was based on creativity and originality of cocktails, technical skills and presentation and finally Knowledge of spirits and ingredients.
In terms of Prizes: the winner Received a unique opportunity to enhance their bartending prowess with a comprehensive training program by Sandton’s top mixologists, valued at $2000.
The Runner-up took home a specially designed Diageo-branded mobile bar and exclusive access to upcoming Diageo events while the one in third place was awarded a premium selection of branded bar equipment, coupled with the privilege of attending future Diageo events.
Diageo is a global frontrunner in beverage alcohol with a collection of brands in the spirits, beer, and wine categories. These include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan’s, and Windsor whiskies; Smirnoff, Cîroc, and Ketel One vodka; Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray, and Guinness.
Diageo operates globally, with products available in over 180 countries, and is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO).
