At 15, Tony travelled overseas alone to study. In an unfamiliar place, he unexpectedly found his rhythm and passion through the aroma of coffee. Every day after school, he would step into a café and watch the baristas work—the grinding, tamping, extracting, and latte art. Every movement fascinated him. It brought him a sense of calm that made him forget jet lag and homesickness.
When Tony returned to Hong Kong for summer break, a volunteer introduced him to Alternative Café. The youth programme “I Am a Barista” had just finished its cycle, so he could only join briefly as an apprentice to help around. But during that short period, he met a mentor who would shape his life—Steven.
Steven, the café’s instructor, was a man of few words, but his focus on coffee carried a quiet power. Whether he was adjusting the grind, monitoring the water temperature, or drawing latte art lines, he worked with steadiness, patience, and perfection. Tony was captivated. With curiosity and admiration, he memorised every detail. Determined to master latte art, he practiced again and again, pouring out cup after cup of milk without hesitation. What moved him most wasn’t just Steven’s skill—it was the attitude of “doing the simple things with excellence,” an attitude more impactful than any technique.
After summer, Tony returned overseas to continue his studies—but with a new direction. He began working part‑time at a local café, turning the sense of focus he witnessed in Hong Kong into his own work ethic. After shifts, he stayed behind to practice latte art; he even bought his own milk and coffee beans to train at home. This persistence gradually led him into the coffee industry, and he eventually won second place in a recognised barista competition.
In the finals, he stood on the stage facing a competitor who was about Steven’s age—a seasoned barista. In that moment, he felt the same awe he once felt toward his mentor. He knew he wasn’t there to defeat someone, but to see how far he had grown. When he won second place, he didn’t feel disappointed—he felt grateful. The result reminded him that a true barista always has room to improve, and that humility is part of the craft.
Tony’s passion was ignited by Steven, and Steven, seeing Tony’s growth, found new encouragement as well. Their encounter proved that a mentor who leads with heart can shape a young person’s future; and a young person with passion can remind a mentor of the meaning of teaching and sharing.
This is the bond they treasure most.