Celebrating the richness of African culture whilst sharing the joy of memorable moments, Afrique Vodka brings a taste of Africa to the world. Jayne Doherty and Beverley Annan-Forson, co-Founders of the company, tell us more about their journey, passion, and plans for an inclusive, delicious future.
TASTE THE ESSENCE OF AFRIQUE
Born out of a shared vision to redefine the premium spirits category with a fresh, African perspective, Afrique Vodka is more than just a luxurious drink crafted with meticulous attention to detail – it is a brand that captures and pays homage to the essence of the continent’s rich and diverse landscapes.
“As Black female founders, we were determined to break into an industry that has traditionally been dominated by a narrow set of voices,” opens Janye Doherty, co-Founder.
“Our journey was about more than creating a great product – it was about challenging norms and opening doors for underrepresented communities in the business world.”
Through the combination of creative instincts and a commitment to excellence, Doherty and fellow co-Founder Beverley Annan-Forson have built a brand that not only makes a statement on the shelf but also serves as a beacon of empowerment and innovation.
With a story that weaves together resilience, a bold vision, and a passion for paving the way for future generations of entrepreneurs, Afrique Vodka is invoking a cultural reset when it comes to how people perceive African dynamism and heritage in the spirits industry.
Having always had a passion for hospitality and storytelling, Doherty’s career began in marketing and communications, where she discovered how food and drink brought people together.
“Over the years, I’ve worked in various areas of the hospitality industry, which only deepened my fascination with creating memorable experiences around a table or a well-crafted cocktail. Ultimately, the food and beverage industry is an ever-evolving canvas allowing for endless creativity and innovation,” she impassions.
Annan-Forson, who started out in childcare, is driven by the positive impact one can make on the world. Whether through supporting children’s development or expressing her creativity in new ways across different sectors, she thrives on bringing people together, regardless of age or background.
“As a vodka enthusiast myself, it felt natural to channel my creativity into crafting a drink that not only delivers exceptional taste but also tells a story, creating memorable experiences for those who enjoy it,” she informs.
“I am incredibly proud to be part of this change through the creation of Afrique Vodka, a brand that embodies variation, culture, and connection.”
CELEBRATING AFRICAN CULTURE
As a premium spirits brand that celebrates African heritage through innovative flavour profiles and impeccable quality, Afrique Vodka’s range includes standout variants designed to evoke the vibrant spirit of the continent.
Based in the UK, the brand’s products are currently featured in select high-end venues, speciality retailers, and at events. The company is continuing to expand its presence both locally and internationally whilst appealing to a range of clients, from discerning cocktail enthusiasts to industry professionals seeking a blend of authenticity and dynamism.
“At Afrique Vodka, our differentiation lies in our deep connection to African heritage and dedication to innovative flavour combinations that you won’t find anywhere else. Every bottle is a celebration of our roots, designed to capture the essence and vibrancy of Africa,” explains Annan-Forson.
Beyond its unique taste profiles, the brand is committed to quality and storytelling, ensuring every sip is an experience that transports the drinker to the heart of Africa.
Additionally, the vodka is crafted from sugar beet instead of the typical wheat base, which not only imparts a distinctive, clean flavour but also renders the product naturally gluten-free.
This blend of cultural authenticity, cutting-edge mixology, and health-conscious production truly serves to set Afrique Vodka apart.
“Our mission is to share the beauty, resilience, and exuberance of African culture with the world. Every bottle is a testament to the rich tapestry of our heritage crafted to evoke joy, celebration, and unity,” prides Doherty.
Whether through the brand’s carefully curated ingredients or vibrant packaging and storytelling, it strives to create a sensory experience that connects consumers with the heart and soul of the continent.
A BRAND WITH A PURPOSE
Alongside Afrique Vodka’s dedication to constant innovation and growth, the company is deeply committed to giving back.
It does so by donating a portion of its profits each year to farmers, supporting agriculture in countries across Africa where the company sources its extracts.
This commitment not only empowers local communities but also helps preserve the authenticity and sustainability of the ingredients.
“We believe success should go hand-in-hand with social impact, which is why corporate social responsibility (CSR) is at the heart of our brand,” enlightens Annan-Forson.
Recognising the vital role agriculture plays in sustaining communities and economies, a percentage of Afrique Vodka’s profits is dedicated to supporting foundations that empower farmers, enhance sustainable farming practices, and improve food security.
By investing in these initiatives, the company aims to create long-term change, ensuring those at the core of food and beverage production have the resources and opportunities to thrive.
“For us, Afrique Vodka is more than just a premium spirit – it’s a brand with a purpose. Every bottle sold contributes to a greater mission of fostering growth, sustainability, and empowerment in the communities that matter most,” highlights Doherty.
As the brand continues to look ahead, it is prioritising expanding into new markets, both domestically and internationally, with a specific focus on entering countries such as Ghana and Nigeria.
Equally, it aims to strengthen its distribution channels, launch new flavour innovations, and increase brand visibility through strategic partnerships and events whilst further investing in CSR initiatives to make a lasting impact in its communities.
“We hope our story can inspire other aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women and people of colour, to pursue their passions despite the obstacles,” concludes Annan-Forson.
