In light of the Russia-Ukraine war, Maksym Isakov, a 28-year-old Ukrainian entrepreneur, has launched a new coffee roasting business in Camden, Maine. The company, “Beans for Peace,” aims to raise funds for those affected by the war.
Isakov, a coffee enthusiast, decided to use his passion to assist his homeland. His business model enables customers to enjoy high-end coffee whilst supporting Ukraine’s relief efforts. Emily Rios, a fellow entrepreneur, was drawn to the concept and chose to lend her business expertise to the cause.
“Beans for Peace” sells artisanal coffee beans gathered from sustainable sources around the globe. The sale of each coffee bag contributes towards helping those impacted by the ongoing conflict. The company’s objective isn’t merely financial assistance to Ukraine, but also raising global awareness about the crisis.
Locals responded positively to the company’s inception, thus facilitating its prospective expansions through partnerships with other cafes and eateries across Maine. Despite the grim situation, Isakov stays hopeful believing in collective effort’s power to make meaningful changes.
After immigrating to America following the war, Isakov initially worked as a student in Maine, which allowed for his family to escape the war in Ukraine. Later, in New York, he found a stable job and provided a comfortable life for his family, away from their previous Ukrainian struggles.
As Isakov began his new project sans considerable funds, he found support within the Maine community. John Ostrand, a local coffee shop owner, particularly backed him. Initially, Isakov began by using Ostrand’s coffee roaster before eventually owning one in Camden. Regardless of early financial hurdles, Isakov’s determination and the community’s support helped him prevail.
At his business, Isakov employs a unique roasting method that parallels the sharp, high-heat European way rather than the conventional bitter American one. A portion of his earnings aids Ukraine, demonstrating Isakov’s commitment towards his homeland and society.
Isakov’s company, Kavka, donates a dollar from every coffee bag sold towards Ukrainian relief efforts. Kavka sources its coffee beans from small-scale farms, abides by fair trade principles, and maintains transparency about their coffee’s origin. These endeavours make Kavka stand out as a business, contributing markedly towards Ukraine’s welfare.
Gradually, Kavka Coffee is earning recognition across several U.S states, expanding from online to physical store sales. Isakov aspires for his brand to symbolize resilience and dedication for Ukraine and its people.
