Waykana: Driving Economic Empowerment Through Sustainable Amazonian Agriculture

This session will explore how Waykana, a for-profit social enterprise, is leveraging sustainable agriculture and fair trade practices to empower indigenous Amazonian communities through the production and commercialization of Guayusa. Guayusa is an ancestral plant that has been used for centuries by Amazonian indigenous peoples as a natural source of energy and well-being. Rich in antioxidants, caffeine, and theanine, this plant not only provides health benefits but also embodies deep cultural and spiritual knowledge.
Through its business model, Waykana has successfully revived and elevated Guayusa cultivation, creating sustainable economic opportunities for small-scale farmers and strengthening local value chains. At the same time, it has introduced this superplant to global markets, positioning it as a healthy and sustainable alternative to traditional energy drinks. The discussion will highlight the challenges and successes of scaling an impact-driven business while maintaining respect for indigenous culture and environmental sustainability.
Building on this context, the session will delve into the broader intersection of indigenous entrepreneurship, climate solutions, and cultural preservation. Waykana works directly with indigenous communities, ensuring that economic empowerment aligns with environmental conservation.

– Climate Conservation Insight:
Through agroforestry practices and organic farming, these communities maintain native vegetation, contributing to forest preservation, biodiversity protection, and climate regulation. This regenerative approach ensures that sustainable land use practices directly support global climate resilience.

– Cultural Preservation Insight:
Waykana’s model serves as a powerful example of cultural preservation. The traditional knowledge and rituals surrounding Guayusa have been passed down for centuries. By integrating this wisdom into an international business framework, Waykana prevents cultural erosion while ensuring that indigenous heritage is not only protected but valued in global markets.

– Key Takeaways:

Sustainable business models that integrate agroforestry and conservation efforts can serve as scalable climate solutions protecting ecosystems and contributing to sustainability.
Ethical entrepreneurship can bridge tradition and innovation, ensuring that cultural heritage is preserved and elevated in global markets.
Impact-driven enterprises can create a win-win relationship between indigenous farmers and entrepreneurs by aligning fair trade, sustainability, and international expansion.
This session will provide attendees with a multi-sensory experience, including storytelling, visuals, music, and an interactive discussion on how indigenous-led enterprises can drive climate action, cultural preservation, and global market expansion.