Comprende 029: Latina-led Yola Mezcal, Sneakers highlight PR, & 41 Latinos join the Academy

INTRODUCTION
¡Saludos! Happy Friday and welcome to the 29th edition of the Minority Majority newsletter.

This week, we highlight Yola Mezcal, founded by Yola Jimenez who blends tradition with female empowerment. We celebrate Bad Bunny’s new Gazelle “San Juan” sneaker, a tribute to Puerto Rican culture, and we recognize the 41 Latinos newly invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, marking a step forward in diversity at the Oscars.

So, grab your afternoon cafecito, settle in, and if you enjoy, please forward the newsletter to friends or share it on social media! ☕️

BUSINESS
Yola Jimenez: Reviving Heritage & Empowering Women through Mezcal

Yola Mezcal, founded by Yola Jimenez, is more than just a brand—it’s a movement that blends rich tradition with female empowerment. Based in Oaxaca, this women-led company is revolutionizing the mezcal industry while uplifting local women through meaningful employment.

Yola Jimenez grew up in Mexico, but left to live and study in places like London and New York, earning a degree in Women’s Studies. However, her roots called her back to Oaxaca.

In 2007, she inherited her grandfather’s mezcal recipe, a legacy dating back to 1971. Determined to honor her heritage, she opened one of the first mezcalerías in Mexico City. The venture quickly gained momentum, attracting the support of Swedish singer Lykke Li and entrepreneur Gina Correll Aglietti. Together, they founded Yola Mezcal, a brand deeply committed to social impact and female empowerment.

Yola Mezcal stands out for its authentic flavor and innovative business model. The company's production process is a testament to its values: the mezcal is distilled and bottled by an all-female team in Oaxaca. This initiative provides local women with financial independence and positions of power in an industry traditionally dominated by men. The master mezcalera, Guadalupe Bautista, leads this dynamic team, ensuring that every bottle reflects the passion and dedication of its creators.

The brand has garnered attention from prestigious publications like the New York Times and Vogue, highlighting its dual focus on quality and social responsibility. Yola Mezcal's popularity has soared, with its drinks now served in luxurious hotels and featured at high-profile events worldwide.

Jimenez’s vision extends beyond crafting premium mezcal. She leverages the brand’s success to support Oaxaca's community and advocate for women's rights. Every partnership and event hosted by Yola Mezcal incorporates a fundraising or social initiative, blending enjoyment with purpose.

Through Yola Mezcal, Yola Jimenez not only preserves a centuries-old tradition but also creates new opportunities for women, proving that business success can go hand-in-hand with social impact. Each glass of Yola Mezcal is a celebration of heritage, empowerment, and the enduring spirit of Oaxaca.

CULTURA
The Gazelle 'San Juan' Sneaker: Bad Bunny’s Ode to Puerto Rico

Even though I’m not the biggest sneaker person, as a Boricua, I had to feature Bad Bunny’s latest collaboration with Adidas for the Gazelle “San Juan” sneaker, which is a nod to his Puerto Rican heritage. Released on June 23rd to coincide with the vibrant Noche de San Juan, a popular holiday in Puerto Rico, the sneaker’s blue color way draws inspiration from the clear waters and historic blue cobblestones of San Juan.

This design goes beyond aesthetics; it embodies Puerto Rican culture and pride. Every detail, from the suede toe cap to the size tag, was designed to creatively reflect the rituals and energy of San Juan's streets. The collaboration highlights the essence of Puerto Rico, with Bad Bunny proudly showcasing our Puerto Rican culture to a global audience.

Bad Bunny’s partnership with Adidas, which began in 2021, has consistently produced designs that resonate with cultural significance. The Gazelle “San Juan” sneaker stands out as it highlights the iconic capital of our small island while demonstrating the huge impact and reach of our community.

IMPACTO
A Seat at the Oscars Table: AMPAS Invites 41 Latinos

Earlier this week, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) extended invitations to 487 new members, including 41 Latinos. These new members will now have a vote in the annual Academy Awards, bringing fresh perspectives to the prestigious event.

Among the actors invited are Jessica Alba (Sin City), Stephanie Beatriz (Encanto), Kate Del Castillo (Under the Same Moon), and Alfredo Castro (El Conde). In the directors’ branch, the new Latine members include Angel Manuel Soto (Blue Beetle), Fede Álvarez (Don’t Breathe), and Lila Avilés (Totem).

Latine talent also shines in other branches: Linda Yvette Chávez (Flamin’ Hot) and Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer (Blue Beetle) in screenwriting, Alejandro Reza (Noche de Bodas) in casting, and Damián García (I’m No Longer Here) in cinematography.

This diverse class highlights the significant impact of Latino professionals in filmmaking, promising to enrich the Academy’s future endeavors. This inclusion is important as it ensures a broader representation of voices and experiences in the film industry, fostering greater diversity and creativity.

If you want to discover the full list and learn more: What’s it like being invited to join the film academy? These Latinos tell us

EN LA COCINA

How to Make: Pan de Coco (Nicaraguan Coconut Bread)

This Pan de Coco recipe offers a simple way to enjoy a traditional Nicaraguan treat, with the natural sweetness of coconut adding a unique twist to classic bread.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup grated fresh coconut (or unsweetened shredded coconut)

• 1 cup coconut milk

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup warm water

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

   • In a small bowl, combine the warm water and a teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

2. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, grated coconut, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, coconut milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until a dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:

   • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

4. First Rise:

   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Shape the Dough:

   • After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.

6. Second Rise:

   • Cover the dough balls with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they have doubled in size again.

7. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

8. Apply Egg Wash:

   • Brush the tops of the dough balls with the beaten egg. This will give the bread a beautiful golden color when baked.

9. Bake:

   • Bake the coconut bread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Cool and Serve:

    • Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your Pan de Coco with a cup of coffee or tea, or as a delightful snack on its own.

NUESTRO TRIVIA: Last Week’s Answer

Last week, we asked: Which Uruguayan writer won the 1975 Cervantes Prize and is known for his works such as "The Truce" and "Gracias por el fuego"?

The correct answer is: Mario Benedetti

Mario Benedetti, a renowned Uruguayan writer, won the prestigious Cervantes Prize in 1975. He is best known for his poignant novel "The Truce," which explores themes of love and loneliness.

Another notable work, "Gracias por el fuego," delves into the complexities of societal and familial relationships. Benedetti's literature often reflects the political and social landscape of Uruguay, making his works both timeless and deeply relevant. His contributions to Latin American literature have cemented his legacy as a master storyteller and a voice of his generation.

NUESTRO TRIVIA: This Week!

Question: Which Argentine tennis player won the US Open in 2009?

Reply with your guess! Answers will be revealed in the next newsletter!

RIEGA LA VOZ

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