Women in Beverage 2025 | Page 6

by KRYSTINA SKIBO

The Distilled Spirits Council’ s partnership with Badass Bartender aims to support, promote and unify the bartending trade.

The Distilled Spirits Council( DISCUS) has partnered with Badass Bartender, a global network of more than 55,000 professional bartenders, aimed at supporting, promoting and unifying the bartending trade.

Badass Bartender was created by Women of the Vine & Spirits in 2020 as a private Facebook Group for women bartenders, according to DIS- CUS. The forum was created to share best practices, network and foster a dialogue on issues impacting the hospitality industry.

“ The important advocacy work DISCUS does for the beverage alcohol industry positively impacts bars and restaurants, including the hundreds of thousands of bartenders they employ,” said Deborah Brenner, Badass Bartender creator and Women of the Vine & Spirits founder and CEO, in a news release.“ Working together, we aim to create opportunities for all bartenders who master their craft, lead with flair and embody true badassery behind the bar.”

DISCUS and Badass Bartender will collaborate on initiatives designed to educate, engage and promote bartenders in the U. S and worldwide, according to DISCUS. These efforts will include specialized programming, events, advocacy campaigns and promotional spotlights that highlight the vital role bartenders play in shaping the spirits industry and elevating the guest experience.

“ This new alliance celebrates the critical role that bartenders play as ambassadors for the hospitality industry,” said Distilled Spirits Council president and CEO Chris Swonger in the release.“ In restaurants and bars across the country, bartenders are leading the way in enriching the consumer experience and enhancing the enjoyment of spirits and well-crafted cocktails. We are excited to join forces to amplify bartenders’ voices on issues that are important to them while also featuring the‘ badass’ work they do every day for our industry.”

by KRYSTINA SKIBO

Women Leading Rum, a global platform championing women in the industry, has evolved into Women Leading Rum & Spirits, reflecting a broader mission to unite and elevate women across all spirits categories.

“ As the industry grows and diversifies, so must we,” says Larissa Arjona, president and co-founder of Women Leading Rum & Spirits.“ This transformation reflects the vital role women play throughout the entire spirits chain— from production and innovation to marketing and leadership. It’ s about building a stronger, more inclusive community.”

Accompanying the transition is a complete rebrand by creative firm Studio Guild. Led by founder Trish Dunstone, the new identity is centered on a fluid ampersand(“&”) that embodies inclusion, connection and continual growth— core values of the expanded platform.

At its core, Women Leading Rum & Spirits is an organization that encourages women’ s achievements across the spirits sector, provides training and professional development opportunities to strengthen leadership, encourages networking and builds community-led initiatives that empower female leadership.

Previously only catering to the rum industry, the rebranded organization will continue to offer education, networking and leadership development to women across the full spectrum of spirits.

“ Diversity is necessary for both our organization and our industry,” Arjona says.“ In order to truly transform this industry, the inclusion of women and diverse leaders not only breaks down many barriers but also redefines what it means to be a part of spirits. Each voice offers a unique vision or perspective that enriches innovation.”

A cornerstone of Women Leading Rum & Spirits’ next chapter is the launch of an international mentorship program, designed to connect emerging professionals with seasoned leaders. The program will provide personalized sessions, skill-building opportunities and enhanced industry visibility.

“ This is a moment of unity and momentum,” says Arjona.

28 2025 WOMEN IN BEVERAGE