2019 Winners

In its inaugural year, the Havana Club Bar Entrepreneur Awards sought out those who have given everything to follow their dream of owning their own establishment. The Awards aspire to shine a spotlight on the risk-takers in the industry, the resilient, and the creatives behind the bars.

During stage two of the 2019 Awards, the 11 finalists were invited to submit a personal video so that judges could virtually meet each bar entrepreneur.

Following the last round of judging, the finalists gathered in Cuba, the home of Havana Club rum, in May 2019. Here, they celebrated Cuban culture, while also coming together as united entrepreneurs. The trip culminated on 23 May 2019 at the grand finale where the Bar Entrepreneur of the Year was announced. Take a look below at who won the crown.

Bar Entrepreneur of the Year

Congratulations to Carina Soto Velasquez, the champion of Havana Club's inaugural Bar Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. Carina's story demonstrated passion, determination, resilience and creativity in the industry.

"Being an entrepreneur is already difficult, being an immigrant entrepreneur is much harder. I admire Carina as she has not only manged to create a successful partnership with two other partners - which in itself is quite hard - but she has created five successful venues, all very different and of high quality." – Judge

Carina was awarded a tailor-made prize package of profile building and support.

Special recognition was also awarded to the three entrepreneurs who excelled in the following categories.

Best Innovator

Stephan Hinz, the individual who has delivered the most exciting and successful innovations in their business.

"Amazing development of all aspects of the bar industry: Books, equipment, training. Stephan pushes the boundaries." - Judge

One to Watch

Kelsey Ramage, the emerging entrepreneur who is clearly on their way to greater success.

"Kelsey started this whole new take on things and shares her research and knowledge for free though her blog. She has an active take on education for future bars and sees the value of classic cocktails in training, next to the Trash Tiki concept." - Judge

Against All Odds

Rosie Stimpson, the entrepreneur who has overcome significant challenges and grown their business to be stronger as a result.

"Successfully runs three places without any hospitality background. Managed to find the right people, keep them with her for a long time and help them grow, all the while also being a mother." – Judge

Congratulations to all the remarkable bar entrepreneurs in the 2019 Awards. Each had a story that went above and beyond, a testament to their achievements and passion for the industry. We'd also like to thank the esteemed panel of entrepreneurial judges and their insightful decision-making they brought to the Awards.