Meet Faezeh Doroudian, the heart and soul behind the lemon grass and dried slices of lime that go into our WaterMates blends. Nestled in the village of Bernatin, near the vibrant city of Roudan in the southernmost region of Iran, Faezeh’s story is one of resilience and dedication.
Bernatin, with its 30 active members, is more than just a village. It’s a community where the scents of dates, limes, lemon grass, and mangoes fill the air. Faezeh’s microfinance fund for rural women is the beating heart of this community, creating jobs and opportunities both directly and indirectly. In a place where the temperature often reaches a scorching 50 degrees Celsius, limes are harvested late in July, then immediately dried to preserve their tangy essence. The dried slices of lime you find in our blends? They are the fruits of the labor of these hardworking women of Bernatin.
But Faezeh’s role doesn’t stop there. Not only is she the director of this vital fund, but she also serves as a social security agent for the region’s rural farmers and nomads. Her tireless efforts are focused on promoting home-based businesses, weaving a tapestry of hope for a brighter future.
From June, when the mangoes are harvested, until October, Faezeh and her community are busy pickling this sweet fruit, preserving its flavor for later use. Each jar of pickled mango holds not just the taste of summer but the dedication of these farmers to sustainable practices.
Faezeh’s story is not just about products; it’s about people. It’s about her unwavering passion for empowering rural women and fostering local businesses. She stands as a beacon of inspiration, showing us all how one person’s determination can create a ripple of change. Her dream is for big changes in the future, and she’s taking small, steady steps towards that vision.
At our company, we don’t just buy products; we build relationships. We work closely with Faezeh and others like her, providing educational resources to improve farming practices and promote sustainability. Each jar of dried lime and lemon grass slice is not just a product; it’s a story of collaboration and growth.
Join us in celebrating Faezeh and the farmers of Bernatin, whose hard work and dedication are infused into every sip of our WaterMates blends. Together, we’re not just creating great products; we’re cultivating a brighter, more sustainable future.
