Fiyori Vodka changes the foundations of the alcohol industry, offering a singular combination of luxury and well-being.

Founded by Clarence Darkwa and COO Jay Black, Fiyori is the world’s first organic vodka with hemp. It offers a smooth, sophisticated drinking experience combined with the health advantages of organic hemp seeds. As black entrepreneurs in a white-dominated industry, Clarence and Jay have overcome challenges and broken barriers to create a product that stands out and is leading a brand new wave of wellness-conscious spirits.

BLACK ENTREPRENEURSHIP We caught up with the founders to debate their journey, the innovation behind their brand, and the way Fiyori is poised to disrupt the market.

BE: What inspired you to create Fiyori and the way did the thought for an organic hemp-infused vodka come about?

Clarence and Jay: Fiyori was inspired by the need to create a premium vodka that not only tasted exceptional, but in addition offered health advantages. Known for its wealthy dietary profile—filled with essential fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants—hemp seeds were a natural alternative. We desired to mix wellness with pampering, and so the thought of ​​an organic vodka infused with hemp was born. Fiyori was a product that combined one of the best of each worlds: premium vodka and the advantages of organic hemp seeds, while maintaining a smooth, sophisticated taste.

Can you tell us concerning the technique of developing the world’s first organic hemp-infused vodka? What challenges did you encounter along the best way?

Creating the world’s first organic hemp-infused vodka has been an exciting journey. The process began with sourcing high-quality organic hemp seeds that met our rigorous standards for sustainability and purity. We experimented with the infusion process to realize the proper balance of flavor without compromising the smoothness of the vodka. One of the most important challenges was overcoming regulatory hurdles and educating consumers concerning the difference between hemp and marijuana. Despite these hurdles, we remained committed to creating a singular product that showcased the natural advantages of hemp seeds.

Why was it necessary to you that Fiyori vodka not only be hemp-infused but in addition organic? How do these decisions reflect your brand values?

From the very starting, we were committed to making a vodka that was aligned with the values ​​of quality, sustainability and wellness. The decision to make use of organic ingredients stemmed from our belief that customers deserve a clean, pure product without harmful additives. Hemp seeds have quite a few health advantages and we desired to preserve these characteristics through an organic process. This commitment to integrity reflects Fiyori’s mission to supply a premium, health-conscious vodka while supporting sustainable farming practices.

How do you think that the addition of hemp makes your vodka stand out from others available on the market and the way have consumers responded to it to date?

The hemp infusion definitely sets Fiyori apart in some ways. It adds a subtle nutty flavor and offers potential health advantages like improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and protection of neurological function. Consumers were thrilled to find a vodka that not only tastes smooth but may also contribute to their overall well-being. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many purchasers surprised by how smooth our vodka is and thrilled by the potential health advantages.

In an industry where tradition often rules, how does Fiyori manage to embrace innovation while still paying homage to the art of vodka making?

While we honor traditional vodka-making techniques, we’ve embraced innovation with our hemp seed infusion and deal with organic ingredients. Using state-of-the-art equipment and sustainable practices, we’ve created a product that’s each modern and respectful of workmanship. Our goal is to refine the vodka-making process without overshadowing its roots, combining tradition with recent trends in wellness and sustainability.

Given current trends within the alcohol industry, where do you see Fiyori’s place and what do you think that the longer term holds for cannabis-infused alcohol?

Fiyori suits right into the growing trend of health-conscious, organic spirits. As more people see the advantages of hemp and as regulations evolve, we imagine hemp-infused spirits will turn into more popular. We are proud to be on the forefront of this movement, leading the charge to coach consumers and push the boundaries of premium spirits.

What advice would you give to aspiring black entrepreneurs seeking to break through? spirits industry or other highly competitive market?

Our advice to aspiring Black entrepreneurs is to remain true to your unique vision. Your personal experiences and perspective can set you apart. Build strong networks, deal with quality and innovation, and persevere within the face of challenges. The journey is not going to be easy, but with exertions, community support, and a transparent mission, success is within sight.

Former NBA star Gary Payton recently partnered with Green Label Rx to launch Greater Purpose, a cannabis-infused wellness brand with recovery support for athletes and professionals.

The product will debut on September 20 at Hall of Flowers, a cannabis industry trade show in Santa Rosa, California. The former legendary Seattle Supersonic guard has teamed up with Green Label Rx founder Jason McKnight to bring the product to the world.

“Having maintained peak physical fitness throughout my career, it became important to me to share the benefits of cannabis recovery and offer the highest quality wellness products to those with an active lifestyle,” Gary Payton said in a written statement.

Greater Purpose bills itself as the primary brand of its kind to mix the worlds of recovery and cannabis. The topical product line will help alleviate chronic muscle pain, because it has been developed to harness the healing properties of cannabis and is designed to assist those with an lively lifestyle.

During the Hall of Flowers festival, people will have the opportunity to experience Greater Purpose, receive exclusive prizes, watch live product demos and meet Payton on the event.

“Greater Purpose is more than just a product line – it’s a movement to change the way we think about recovery and self-care,” said Jason McKnight.

It was recently revealed that Payton, who has been coaching basketball for several years, was announced as the brand new head coach of the College of Alameda men’s basketball team. He will lead the team after serving as head coach at Lincoln University in Oakland, California for the past three seasons.

Payton has coached within the Big3 Ice Cube league since its inception in 2017. He led his team to a title last season and was named Big3 Coach of the Year.

In 2006, he won the NBA championship with the Miami Heat. The 56-year-old played within the NBA for 17 seasons with the Seattle SuperSonics, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics. In the 1995-96 season, he was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year, becoming the primary point guard to win the award.

Franchise gameThe first and only African American Franchise Symposium and Trade Show in the U.S., held its second annual event on August 16, 2024 in Plano, Texas. The event, which was spearheaded by The Franchise Player, Tarji Carter, marketing expert Dessie Brown Jr., and brand consultant Daylon Goff, was held on the Yum! Restaurants International Corporate Campus. The symposium brought together industry experts and leaders to debate the secrets to success, challenges, and opportunities in franchising.

(Photo credit: Donnie R. Word II)

This yr’s theme, “Own Your Future: Franchising as a Path to True Independence,” was the focus throughout the day. There were many notable highlights, but in keeping with Tarja Carter, “One of the most memorable moments at The Franchise Game 2024 was an incredible fireside chat with our esteemed guest, Roland Parrish, and the incredible Lady Jade. Roland’s story of how he used his success to revitalize a struggling community in Dallas through his foundation is truly inspiring. And his sponsorship of Charlie Pride’s internship with the Texas Rangers Baseball Club shows just how deep his commitment runs. But what really stole the show were the priceless gems he dropped, encouraging everyone to lead with integrity, not greed. His words hit home in a powerful way and left the audience feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to make a difference.”

James Fripp, Chief Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Officer at Yum! Brands made a big impact at this yr’s Franchise Game by offering two scholarships to the Yum! Franchising Bootcamp through the Executive Education Program on the University of Louisville! This opportunity is an actual game-changer for 2 lucky participants who will now have the prospect to delve into the world of franchising and gain invaluable knowledge to advance in their entrepreneurial journey. What a unbelievable gesture of support and empowerment from James and Yum! Brands!

This yr, there have been twice as many exhibitors, including Ben & Jerry’s, American Franchise Academy, Nebo Law Firm, Dine Brands (IHOP, Applebee’s and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop), GoTo Foods (Cinnabon, Carvel, Schlotzsky’s, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Jamba Juice, McAlister’s Deli and Auntie Anne’s), Smoothie King, Potbelly Sandwiches, KFC, European Wax Center, Inspire Brands (Dunkin’, Baskin Robbins, Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jimmy Johns and Sonic Drive-In), EATS Broker (restaurant brokerage), ATenantCo (business real estate), Orchatect (IT infrastructure solutions) and Chick N Max.

I had the pleasure of participating in the symposium and trade fair, representing Ben & Jerry’s and reporting on the event BLACK ENTREPRENEURSHIP readers. In my role as a franchise development consultant for the brand, I shared with The Franchise Game participants details about Ben & Jerry’s industry-leading racial equity incentive program, which offers a big reduction in franchise fees and waives licensing fees for BIPOC candidates interested in ownership. “It’s definitely one of the most, if not the most aggressive incentive programs in the game,” Carter said. “We were also very grateful to partner with Ben & Jerry’s, who generously donated ten tickets for students at the University of North Texas at Frisco to participate in The Franchise Game and experience the world of franchising firsthand. It’s all about creating opportunity and access, and we’re so grateful for Ben & Jerry’s commitment to making a real difference!”

After the massive success of The Franchise Game 2024, planning is already underway for 2025. Carter said, “2024 was an absolute blast! We’ve doubled in size, with a bigger, better, and bolder program that sets the stage for something truly special. Our partnership with Yum! Brands has been phenomenal, and I’m excited to announce that we’re returning to their Plano Corporate Campus for The Franchise Game 2025 — and trust me, it’s going to be EPIC! We’re already gearing up for next year, ready to welcome more Texas entrepreneurs and give them the tools, connections, and inspiration they need to succeed as franchise owners. I can’t wait to see everyone there!”

To learn more about The Franchise Player and events, go to pl.franchiseplayer.com.