At WatchHouse, we take pride in the exceptional talent driving our craft, and few embody this more than Nikol Novotná, our Head Roaster. From a small town in Slovakia to becoming one of the few certified Q Graders in the world, Nikol's journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of breaking boundaries—particularly as a woman in the male-dominated coffee industry.

Chasing the dream.

For Nikol Novotná, the dream of becoming a Q Grader—a globally recognised coffee sensory expert—once felt unattainable. In Slovakia, where only two Q Graders existed and just one woman before her had achieved certification (who has since let it lapse), the odds were stacked against her. Yet, she set her sights on the ultimate goal.

“I wouldn't say I was chasing it,” Nikol reflects. “But it was always the ultimate dream to achieve.”

From the start of her career, Nikol declared her ambitions openly, and with encouragement from her colleagues Ryan and Lukas, both Q Graders themselves, she methodically honed her skills.

“I told them, ‘I want to be a Q Grader.’ They asked when, but I knew I had to feel ready. They never pushed me, which gave me the space I needed.”

Overcoming challenges.

Nikol’s journey was not without hurdles. Postponed courses and a gruelling training regime tested her determination. She gave up alcohol and avoided spicy foods to keep her palate finely tuned—sacrifices familiar to anyone committed to such a rigorous process.

“From September to November, I had only very few drinks and then again for a good month and a half, so not drinking. I was not eating spicy food, using very little of seasoning, like very little of salt, very little of black pepper.”

Her breakthrough moment came during a cupping session.

“I found a defect in a cup that others missed. That was when I knew I was ready.”

After years of preparation, Nikol completed her Q Grader certification—a triumph that filled her with pride.

“I’ve never been more proud of myself. It was such a relief, and I still want to cry when I think about it.”

Empowering women in coffee.

Nikol’s story is not just about personal success but about paving the way for other women in coffee. She now works alongside Nadia, one of her biggest supporters during the Q Grader journey, to encourage more women to step into leadership and competitive roles in the coffee industry.

“We want to push as women. Nadia and I both love roasting, and now it’s about proving ourselves in competitions too.”

Beyond competitions, Nikol sees her certification as a gateway to exciting opportunities, including research collaborations and quality control. At the end of January, she will be working with Fabiana from Mió on a Q Grader-led research project.

A message of inspiration.

Nikol’s journey is one of perseverance, breaking barriers, and inspiring others to dream big—particularly women who may feel limited in traditionally male-dominated spaces. Her confidence has grown not only professionally but personally.

“I’m not a ball of nerves anymore. I know I can do whatever I put my mind to.”

As Nikol Novotná continues to lead as WatchHouse Head Roaster, she remains dedicated to showing others that with passion and persistence, no dream is too big.