– Can you please introduce yourself in a few words.
I am the mom of Arno, the lover of Glenn and I believe in coffee and laughter in life.
– What’s your story in the coffee industry?
I did it my way.
– When did Cuperus open and what is the story behind?
Cuperus is an old company. It exists since 1823. Since then, there were a lot of “coffee waves”. Cuperus has always produced quality coffee and tea that was accessible and approachable.
– What’s your specialty and what makes you different?
I believe in the happiness and energy that coffee can give and the community that it generates. Therefore I like to give, teach and coach. I think coffee should be easy so everyone, young and old, hip and not hip, every gender and every race can enjoy good quality coffee. I also believe that easiness is the only way to support the specialty coffee industry. By making it not special but normal a larger group of people will feel connected.
– What was your first coffee experience?
At home! A big mug of filter coffee with a lot of cold milk. Whenever I am home (dad’s place) I still drink my coffee like that. It is the home, comfort coffee.
– How/when have you discovered about specialty coffee?
I remember being blown away in a cupping with all the different flavors, tastes and aromas. I remember not sleeping about it, not understanding it and feeling stupid about it. Thats where my learning process began.
– What was your best coffee experience?
1. Dads coffee, still, forever and ever.
2. Mangooos espresso during the Belgian barista competition that he won.
3. Joachims signature drink during the same competition.
– Do you prepare coffee at home ? If yes, what method do you use?
I am in love with Espro Press, no nonsense coffee.
– How do you like your coffee? Black, sugar and milk, iced, vietnamese style,…?
Black, strong and honest.
– How would you qualify yourself as coffee drinker (occasional, heavy, addict…)?
Taster, not often enough enjoyer.
– Have you always been into the coffee industry? If not, what was your previous job?
I was a teacher before I got into coffee.
– Do you have another passion or a hobby besides coffee?
My family and friends are my other passion. Traveling and visiting the farmers that we work with in direct trade gives me a lot of satisfaction as well. Doesn’t feel like working.
– What other place would you recommend, anywhere in the world (coffee or not)?
Anywhere where they smile.
– What is/are your favorite website(s) to get information about coffee?
I love the Sca reports. I love the website of the World Coffee Research.
– What would you say to people who don’t know much about coffee?
Buy it local and honest – drink it with a smile.