Hidden blessings: Kimchi Lai lost her job to AI, embraced full-time bartending and is now the first woman to win France’s Giffard West Cup

Kim Chi Lai, a 26-year-old woman from Malaysia, made history by becoming the first woman to win France's Giffard West Cup in 2026. A mix-up during the drawing of lots placed her as the first to perform among 19 finalists, causing her initial anxiety. Prior to her bartending career, Lai had lost her job as a translator and interpreter to AI, leading her to transition into bartending full-time.

She works at Reka:Bar and credits the hands-on nature of her new job for its appeal. Lai also expressed concerns about AI's growing influence in the food and beverage industry, noting that it could affect every aspect of businesses, from menus to social media content. Despite the physical demands of bartending, Lai finds fulfillment in connecting with her customers and believes that hospitality should prioritize human interaction over perfection.