Hey everyone, my name is Xavier Doe, and I'm the CEO of AmaZai. My journey to bring this incredible drink to you started almost two years ago with a single conversation. It's a story that's deeply personal to me, and I'm excited to share it with you.
The Spark of an Idea
The idea for Amazai began with a friend's spiritual journey to the Amazon rainforest. She was born and raised in Rio, but even she was surprised by what she found there: a beverage that locals called "Açaí coffee." She had no idea it existed, but everyone she met spoke about its amazing benefits from the açaí fruit, which is so popular in that region.
When she returned, she told me all about her trip and brought back some samples. I was instantly curious. As someone who isn't a coffee drinker, the idea of a coffee alternative made from açaí seeds was fascinating. I took a sip, and I was hooked. The taste was something I had never experienced before—rich, delicious, and unique.
But as I started to research the history of this drink, I made a discovery that changed everything. I learned that the açaí seeds used to make this beverage are normally discarded after the fruit is harvested. This creates a significant environmental burden in Brazil. Suddenly, I saw an opportunity to do more than just start a business. I saw a chance to create something that was not only delicious but also sustainable and beneficial to the environment. I knew right then that I was ready to bring Amazai to the US market.
Building a Team and a Mission
Taking on this mission wasn't easy. I don't speak Portuguese, so I had to find someone who could help me navigate the operations and find the right supplier. This is where I found our incredible Operations Manager, Jessica Costa, who lives in São Paulo, Brazil.
She flew to the State of Pará, near Belém, and embarked on a months-long search for the perfect supplier. We had some initial setbacks with a first supplier that didn't work out, but Jessica's dedication never wavered. Her hard work and persistence paid off, and we finally found a partner who shared our values and commitment to quality.
And about a year ago, my close friend Patryk Strojny joined the team as a co-founder. He tried the açaí coffee, fell in love with both the taste and the sustainability aspect, and has been working closely with me ever since. Together, we're a team united by a passion for this incredible product and the mission behind it.
With our team in place, we began the long process of bringing our product to life. From navigating the FDA approval process and designing our packaging to perfecting the recipe through extensive R&D, every step was a challenge. But it was also a labor of love.
Now, after countless hours and an incredible journey, I'm so proud to introduce you to Amazai. This isn't just a drink; it's a taste of the Amazon's rich culture and a product that helps protect its future. I can't wait for you to try it and experience the difference yourself.
