The Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling (MJF) has been making significant strides in promoting diversity and equity within the craft beer industry. Named after the renowned beer and whiskey writer, Michael James Jackson, this foundation provides scholarship opportunities to underrepresented communities, aiming to create a more inclusive and just industry. Since its inception in 2020, MJF has supported over fifty individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering them the financial resources needed to advance their careers in brewing. Through these efforts, the foundation is rewriting the narrative for People of Color in an industry that has historically posed systemic barriers. This article delves into the transformative impact of MJF through the story of one of its recent recipients, Gali Hernandez.
A New Chapter for Brewers of Color
In the heart of the bustling craft beer scene, the MJF has emerged as a beacon of hope for aspiring brewers who face significant financial hurdles. Founded by Garrett Oliver, a thirty-year Brooklyn Brewery Brewmaster, the foundation seeks to equip People of Color with the tools and education necessary to thrive in this competitive field. Scholarships provided by MJF cover substantial costs associated with advanced brewing programs, ensuring that talented individuals can access these opportunities without being hindered by financial constraints.
One such beneficiary is Gali Hernandez, a Venezuelan-American brewer who received the Sir Geoff Palmer Scholarship for Brewing. Hernandez, now a brewer at Grimm Artisanal Ales, reflects on her journey from a production intern at Bronx Brewery to earning a place in the prestigious Siebel’s WBA Advanced Brewing Theory Program. Her experience highlights the profound impact of MJF scholarships on personal and professional growth. Hernandez emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community in shaping her career aspirations, driven by her family's legacy of hard work and dedication.
An Inspiring Journey: Gali Hernandez's Story
Gali Hernandez's connection to beer began during childhood visits to Venezuela, where it symbolized family gatherings and joy. Her first encounter with craft beer was a pivotal moment, sparking a passion that would guide her career path. Hernandez's journey through various breweries, including Fifth Hammer and Bronx Brewery, honed her skills and deepened her understanding of brewing techniques. At Grimm Artisanal Ales, she achieved a significant milestone by successfully brewing her first spontaneously fermented beer, marking a personal triumph.
Hernandez's selection as an MJF recipient came as a surprise, but it filled her with honor and humility. The scholarship will allow her to delve deeper into brewing science and theory, enhancing her decision-making abilities on the brew deck. Beyond technical skills, Hernandez aims to inspire and mentor future BIPOC brewers, drawing inspiration from her parents' perseverance and sacrifice. Her father's pride in her achievements underscores the importance of family support in achieving one's dreams.
As Hernandez looks to the future, her goals have evolved to include fostering mentorship and providing resources for the next generation of brewers. She envisions a craft beer industry that embraces diversity and equity, creating opportunities for all to succeed. Through her work and advocacy, Hernandez embodies the spirit of the MJF, paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant brewing community.
From a reader's perspective, the story of Gali Hernandez and the MJF serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education and mentorship. It highlights the importance of breaking down barriers and creating pathways for underrepresented groups to thrive in any industry. The foundation's efforts not only benefit individual recipients but also contribute to a more equitable and diverse craft beer landscape, enriching the community as a whole.