DEI 2024 | Page 4

BEVERAGE INDUSTRY INCLUSION

The Ada Coleman Project is a new global database and digital space for women in hospitality . The new digital platform and educational activations aim to foster gender equality and diversity within the industry , offering resources like educational content , articles and career opportunities .

One feature of the platform is a database of accomplished women in the drinks industry , designed as a tool for event organizers , competition hosts and establishments looking to diversify their pool of hired professionals .

Co-founders Kristine Bocchino and Kaitlin Wilkes named the project after Ada Coleman , the first woman to hold the position of Head Bartender at the Savoy Hotel in London . In addition to online tools , the project offers mentorship opportunities , collaborations and advocacy efforts .

“ Our vision is to spotlight the women who innovate and inspire us as an industry , in an effort to raise awareness and encourage meaningful conversations regarding the importance of a more balanced and diverse selection of leaders and educators in hospitality ” Bocchnio said .

BuzzBallz founder Merilee Kick recently donated $ 30 million to Texas Woman ’ s University , a record for the school ’ s college of business . The donation will fund an institute focused on innovation and entrepreneurship , an endowed chair and an entrepreneur-in-residence program , as well as a new building for the college .

Kick received her MBA from the school in 2009 , where her master ’ s thesis was the business plan leading to her company ’ s creation .

“ My MBA from TWU enabled me to write a solid business plan for what became BuzzBallz , a billion-dollar company ,” she said . As a former educator and child of educators , teaching the next generation is important for our future .”

BuzzBallz was sold in May to Sazerac , although Kick agreed to stay on as CEO during a four-year transition period .

The Nearest & Jack Advancement Initiative held its inaugural Spirits on the Rise Summit last year , where Blackleaf Organic Vodka and Mission Craft Cocktails were selected as the first brands in its Business Incubation program . The program provides mentorship and business support for BIPOC and underrepresented spirits industry entrepreneurs .

Nearest & Jack was launched in June 2020 as a collaboration between the Jack Daniel Distillery and Nearest Green Distillery . Incubator recipients gain access to marketing firms , branding executives , distribution networks and other assets to help them grow . Blackleaf and Mission Craft were the first brands selected through the Spirits on the Rise event , following Du Nord Social Spirits ’ graduation from the incubator program in 2022 .

Kevin Larkai ( left ) and Monté Burrow ( right ) of Blackleaf Organic Vodka

Marcin Malyszko ( left ) and Amit Singh ( right ) of Mission Craft Cocktails

4 Beverage Industry Inclusion 2024