Fatima Ismael

In 1999, the charismatic Fatima Ismael took over the struggling Soppexcca coffee co-op. She developed a business plan that would revolutionise it, improving the lives of its members and the community. Its success today is testament to Fátima’s aim of empowering women farmers; coffee profits are ploughed back into education, diversification and health centres.

Supporting female farmers

Women are an important part of the farmer co-operatives that produce Perkee, and 32% of Soppexcca’s members are women. Together with the wives of the male participants, they play an essential role in running their enterprise.

More than 320 women take part in a solidarity savings and loan programme to diversify their families’ income and complement coffee production. Many of them are saving money for the first time in their lives, and are learning business, marketing and credit skills. This community participation helps the women develop leadership abilities and boosts their self-esteem.

An inspiring story

Wendy Bartlett, our CEO, said,

“When I read about Fatima and her view that a ‘woman’s independence can only be achieved through economic autonomy and awareness’, I recognised a kindred spirit and was determined that we would partner with Soppexcca to create BM’s new coffee. By drinking Perkee, our customers can enjoy a great-tasting, fairtrade coffee, and make a positive difference to the Soppexcca community.”

To find out more about Perkee, please visit the website and see how our coffee turns customers’ frowns upside down.