Coffee makes your day in Portia's Humble home

A good cup of coffee and a smile can really make someone's day.

That's the view of Portia Sibiya, voted KZN's best barista in the 2025 Battle of the Beans competition announced last week.

The young 20-something Montclair resident has been behind the coffee machine for only three years and says it's something she's enjoyed learning and growing into. Today she is at the helm of the little Humble Coffee shop outlet in Florida Road. It's basically a counter with the coffee machine taking pride of place and three little tables along the one wall. Outside there is a bench you can sit on. It's often full, and you'll often bump into someone you know, but to Sibiya it is like her home and everyone is welcome.

"It's something I grew into and enjoy because it's a versatile environment. It suits me well. I wasn't always a barista. It's such a joy how far I've come from not being able to do latte art to being able to describe what a cortado is. It is something I'm so grateful for and happened in such a short space of time," she says.

She has also formed "wonderful friendships" with her customers.

"I enjoy getting to know my customers, forming a relationship over the making a coffee, knowing their orders and seeing the joy on their faces when they take that first sip."

Sibiya originally applied for a kitchen assistant position at Humble, but owner Amy Gardiner had other ideas. "I did my interview and she texted me the same day. There was an opening at front of house and she would like me there," she said.

Described by coffee judges as "grace under pressure", she can rack up three or four complex orders on the go while still welcoming newcomers into her little coffee station. This surprises Sibiya. "Under a rush I don't want to show it," she says. "I prefer to calm them down. I see you and acknowledge that you're here even if you order may only be ready further down the line. I make the pressure subside with a smile."

Sibiya was surprised at winning the competition. "This industry is tough sometimes and this is a real pat on the back. It shows that my work ethic been seen. It encourages me to carry on loving people, serving people regardless of title. When you lead with your heart, it always comes back to you. Everyone said well deserved.

"It's like being recognised for turning up to work and making an impact on people's lives. Some may see it as simply making a cup of coffee, I'm hoping to make a person's day, make them be seen. It's amazing what one cup of coffee can do," she says.

Sibiya is a women of many talents. She is currently studying business management and also runs a small home bakery. She specialises in cinnamon rolls.

"The boss encourages us to push our skills," she says. "she allows me to sell them here on Saturday. So Thursday and Friday after work are my baking days.

"Durban people love sweet things and they show up every Saturday."