Changemaker Spotlight: December 2020
Martín Sanchez
Owner and Founder,
Amór Kombucha
In one sentence, what do you do?
I am the owner and founder of Amór Kombucha.
What drew you to the work you are doing with Amór Kombucha?
I have a passion to nurture those around me. Kombucha (Fermented tea that improves immune system, aids in digestive health and natural energy) allows me to do this for my community and beyond. In my studies at Sacramento State University I realized how much the lack of information was impacting communities of color. I primarily research the relationship between your gut and brain, this allowed me to understand how for communities living in low socio-economic areas had the higher risk to disease/illness related to diet. Growing up on the East Side of Stockton, I had liquor stores nearby nut not really a grocery store to provide healthy food options, but this was something I wasn't aware f growing up. Amór is the vessel where I will provide education and empowerment for us to take our health back. Amór Kombucha also fills a void to represent business owned by someone that looks like me. Brown and Proud. I created Amór kombucha to represent the community I am representing- those that Lead with Love. The Community that Endures, Conquers and Inspires with Amór.
What inspires you about Stockton?
My brand is inspired by Stockton. Stockton has a rich history of individuals that Endure, Conquer and Inspire while leading with love. Stockton is Authentic and raw just like my products. I put "Hecho (made) en Stockton" on every product I make because I want the world to know that Amór (love) is a name that is synonymous with Stockton.
What advice do you have for those looking to make change in Stockton?
My advice to those looking to make change in Stockton is have unwavering Faith in what you are doing. Cut out the noise and and focus on the goal.
You're an innovator in your field and the world is rapidly changing around us. How are you adapting and what support can Third City Coalition members offer?
In a rapidly changing world, adapting is not an option, it's necessary. The current state of the world really showed how little control one has day-to-day. With that said one should still have a plan and do their best to execute. I adopted by implementing more self care and pivoting when things come up versus panicking. Also, the value of strong relationships really showed. Third City Coalition can help by sharing my business and mission to create accessible healthy products and education to underserved communities.