By Maame Yaa Adu-Nketia
Annette Mulama is breaking barriers in the world of mixology, a field traditionally dominated by men. Her dedication and talent have propelled her to the top, recently earning her the title of 2024 World Class Kenya Bartender. The competition, which began in April with 278 participants, culminated in a fierce final round where Annette emerged victorious. She will now represent Kenya at the global finals in Shanghai, China, in September.
Annette’s journey began with her passion for the hospitality industry. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Kenyatta University, she pursued mixology at the Nairobi Bar School. Her first job at Noir Gallery allowed her to hone her skills, leading her to compete in the 2022 Diageo World Class competition, where she placed in the top six despite being new to the field.
In 2023, Annette joined Tribe Hotel’s Hero Restaurant, where she continued to refine her craft. Her hard work paid off, as she once again made it to the top six in the 2023 Diageo World Class competition. She also ranked among the top 25 in The Blend Scholarship by @50BestBars, connecting her with young bartenders worldwide.
During an interview at Hero, Annette shared her insights and experiences. She emphasized the importance of following competition rules, never underestimating competitors, and showcasing one’s skills confidently. Her signature cocktail, “THE BUZZ,” exemplifies her innovative approach. It combines 45ml gastrique and 50ml Singleton 12, shaken and served in a whisky glass with a beef skewer garnish. The unique blend of flavors results in a cocktail with a balanced and intriguing taste.
Annette believes that professionalism, receptiveness to criticism, and a commitment to practice are what set great mixologists apart. She enjoys exploring current trends like fat washing, milk washing, clarification, infusions, and carbonation. For aspiring mixologists, she advises discipline, overcoming fear, readiness to learn, and maintaining professionalism.
Facing challenges as a female mixologist, Annette remains focused on her goals and balances work and emotions to stay motivated. She stresses the importance of sourcing alcohol from trusted suppliers and educating customers about cocktail concepts to combat issues like counterfeit alcohol.
To stay updated with industry trends, Annette leverages online resources like the Diageo Bar Academy and learns from international bartenders during takeovers at Hero Bar. She also finds inspiration in books, discovering how past bartending trends are being innovated today.
As she prepares for the Global World Class Finals in China, Annette is eager to represent Kenya and meet industry leaders. She hopes to learn diverse techniques, network extensively, and showcase Kenya’s rich heritage on the global stage. Annette aspires to be the Voice of Women in Cocktails, inspiring other women to overcome fear and excel in the industry.
Source: Capital FM (Nairobi), GAT
