Harsita Ghatge’s journey in coffee began with something simple: a part-time job behind the counter at Third Wave Coffee. What she found there was a world that sparked her curiosity and drew her in. She stayed after hours to practice, driven not by competition but by a genuine desire to learn. That early curiosity grew into craft, and over time, into quiet and intentional leadership.
Now the National Beverage Ambassador at SMOOR Chocolates and winner of the MONIN
Coffee Creativity Cup, Harsita brings a thoughtful and grounded presence to the beverage
industry. She values substance over spotlight and leads with clarity, focus, and care. Her story is part of Women Raise the Bar, a platform that honours women who are not only masters of their craft but are also reshaping the culture that surrounds it.
Read the full article to discover how Harsita is creating space, raising standards, and leading by example in hospitality.
Read her story.
1) Your Journey Begins
How did you first step into the world of bartending or hospitality?
I started working at Third Wave Coffee as a part-time job to support myself during my studies. At first it was just a way to earn some extra income but over time I became genuinely interested in the art of making coffee, discovering flavors and connecting with guests. That’s how I gradually found my way into the hospitality industry.
Was there a moment early in your joruney when you throught: "I've found my calling"?
It wasn't a single moment but more of a gradual realization. When I began experimenting with flavors and created my first signature beverage something clicked. I loved the creative process, finding the perfect balance of taste and seeing people's reactions to what I made. That's when I knew this was more than just a job. I had found something I truly enjoyed and wanted to grow in.
2) Challenges & Turning Points
"What helped me push through was letting my work speak for itself "
What has been the hardest part of your path in this industry, something that nearly made you give up? What helped you push through when the odds felt stacked against you?
The hardest part was finding my voice in an industry full of confident, outspoken personalities. I've always been quiet and reserved so standing out or being heard didn't come naturally. I often felt overlooked no matter how hard I worked. What helped me push through was letting my work speak for itself. Over time I realized I didn't need to be the loudest in the room. I just had to stay consistent, keep learning and focus on my craft. Slowly that earned me the recognition I had been working toward.
3) Milestones That Matter
What's a moment or achievement in your career that you're especially proud of?
Winning the MONIN Coffee Creativity Cup 2025 was more than a personal achievement. It was my way of honoring my country and its rich heritage. As my name was announced, I felt proud to represent the culture and traditions that shaped me, a reminder that my roots are my greatest strength.
My drink, "Maharani's Sharbath Negroni," celebrated the strength and grace of the women in my Rajasthani heritage. Maharani reflected resilience and tradition, sharbath evoked childhood summers, and the Negroni influence brought balance through three simple, intentional syrups.
In the mystery round, faced with unexpected ingredients, I trusted my instincts and drew on personal memories to create something authentic and true to my story.
"My roots are my greatest strength"
How do you define success today? Has that definition changed over time?
I used to believe success was about being seen and appreciated by others. Over time, that has changed. Now, I see sucess as having the courage to dream bigger, set higher goals, and keep pushing my own limits. It's no longer about who notices my work but about how far I'm willing to take my vision.
Who has inspired you the most on this journey?
My mom has always been my biggest inspiration. Her strength is quiet but constant, and it has shaped who Iam. She taught me to stay grounded, to trust myself, and to always lead with kindness.
Watching her handle life with so much grace showed me that being strong doesn't mean being harsh. It can be soft and steady too. She never told me to be a princess. She showed me how to be a warrior. Strong, fearless, and kind. Whenever I create, especially when the pressure is high, I think of her calm energy and it keeps me going. This win feels like it belongs to her as much as it does to me.
4) Shifting the Narrative
In your eyes, how has the role of women behind the bar changes in recent years?
It has become cool to be a woman behind the bar now. It feels more accepted, and people truly appreciate the skill and creativity anyone can bring to the craft. It's less about proving something and more about just doing what we love and being recognized for it.
What does inclusion in hospitality really mean to you beyond words or token gestures?
To me real inclusion isn't just about hiring women or giving them opportunities. It's about making it feel completely normal. When roles, responsibilities and expectations aren't based on gender. When you're seen for your work and not your identity. True inclusion means no special treatment. Just equal respect, equal changes and a shared passion for the craft.
What's our industry practice or mindset you believe needs to change now, not tomorrow?
The mindset that only experience defines skill needs to change. Experience matters but it shouldn't overshadow fresh ideas and creativity especially from newcomers. We need to create more space for learning, collaboration and open-mindedness. Talent grows when it's given a chance not just when its' been around the longest.
5) On Women Raise the Bar
" When we Stop treating inclusion like a trend and make it part of how we work every day that's when real change happens"
What does the Women Raise the Bar movement really mean to you personally?
For me Women Raise the Bar is about showing that being a woman behind the bar is completely normal and just as strong, skilled and creative as anyone else. It's not about standing out because you're woman but about being recognized for your work, your ideas and your passion. Personally it's a reminder that I belong here not because of a movement but because I've earned my place.
How do we ensure that this movement doesn't stop at conversation but leads to real opportunities for women?
It's easy to talk about change but real progress happens when we start normalizing women leading bars, managing teams and being part of key decisions without making it a headline. Let skills and hard work speak not stereotypes. When we stop treating inclusion like a trend and make it part of how we work every day that's when real change happens.
6) Quick Picks
• Your Favourite drink to make: It changes everyday
• One current Ingredient or trend you're currently obsessed with: I'm currently obsessed with clarified ingredients especially clarified coffee and juices. They give a clean polished look withoutlosing depth of flavor.
• What does “Raising the bar” truly mean to you in one sentence: "Kar Haar Maidaan Fateh" - turning every challenge into a win.
Ready to Raise yours?
Harsita's journey is a powerful reminder that passion, quiet determination and creativity can move mountains one drink at a time. Felt inspired? Join the Women Raise the Bar community and be part of a growing movement where every voice matters. Come raise yours.
Curious to learn more about the MONIN Coffee Creativity Cup? Don't miss our latest blog for an inside look at this year's competition, check it here
