Wataru is a seasoned beverage innovation specialist - with years behind the bar as a bartender before moving into specialized training for coffee. Passionate about coffee chemistry and preparation, Wataru began his journey as a barista at a young age, before pursuing his Coffee Diploma and is now an Authorised Trainer with Specialty Coffee Association.

Wataru is currently a Trainer and Beverage Innovation Executive for Dankoff Coffee Specialist and Dcacademy, managing clients and students alike. He has also participated as a technical judge for local and international coffee championships such as the Malaysia Barista Championship and Singapore National Coffee Championships.