When you think that unique and innovative creations can only arise from far-off places, you encounter Cherry Ras, a brave and visionary mother who has brought forth a new business of tea-making with the Aruban herb, Toronjil. Known for its aromatic components and its ability to combat anxiety, insomnia, and indigestion while inducing calmness, Toronjil sparked Cherry's idea to create something unique in Aruba. She was sure of her concept, but she needed the necessary tools to make it a reality. And that's exactly what she did. As someone who always seeks to learn new things and who received valuable life lessons from her father to passionately pursue her interests, Cherry set her hands to work. It was during this process that Cherry's path crossed with Qredits' Agribusiness Academy, transforming Aruba Tea Company from a simple idea into a reality! This is her story...
BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE...
THE PERSON:
"I am Cherry Ras, a mother of three children whom I consider my blessings in every sense. I am truly honored to be their mother. Being a divorced mother was not easy, but every life obstacle has made me stronger. Today, I no longer see problems as problems but rather as new challenges to face. With a positive mindset, I attract positive experiences and am surrounded by beautiful and energetic people. I am truly blessed to have a creative family where we all express our unique styles."
AN AGRICULTURAL ENTREPRENEUR:
"I had to send toronjil abroad, and at that time, I didn't know how to package it. That's when I came across the world of tea. Thus, my journey as an agricultural entrepreneur began. My first step was to attend an Agriculture course at Santa Rosa. I took courses in Agripeneur, Good Agriculture Practices, and Agribusiness. Through them, I learned the process: from planting the same plant, transforming it into tea, and finally packaging it for sale. The business was good, but without being able to foresee the future, the pandemic brought both challenges and opportunities. One of the good things was the high demand for herbs like moringa and toronjil. It was here that I realized that my packaging process was not easy. This motivated me to search for a packaging machine. That's when I discovered that Qredits offered the Agribusiness course... and I enrolled in it."
The opportunity to learn how to expand and manage her business correctly has added value to the success that Cherry now enjoys with her company, Aruba Tea Company. "I learned how to create a business plan and consider the factors that need to be taken into account. We obtained valuable information from the Chamber of Commerce (KvK), the Tax Department, Santa Rosa, and other farmers who already had their businesses. We also visited other businesses, and I must say that I felt very proud to see their products being produced right here in Aruba. We have a lot to offer. Working together is crucial, and the value lies in the importance of having a sustainable product. A good budget and proper financial management are essential. How to market your product? All of this was part of the course that Qredits provided us."
What is Agri Business Academy for You?
Agri Business Academy is where you learn how to turn your agricultural production into a profitable business. Simply put, it means consciously making money from what you produce. I used the word "consciously" because it is essential to have proper planning, be well-organized, manage finances, control what you have, evaluate your plan, understand the importance of networking, marketing, and your vision. These are all crucial aspects that the course taught me."
This program has had a tremendous impact on various aspects of my life. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity that Qredits has provided us. I had the honor of taking this course alongside a wonderful group of people whom I deeply admire. And our instructor... she brought such positive energy that motivated us to continue.
This program is of utmost importance to Aruba. First and foremost, it unites everyone in the primary sector when it comes to establishing their own businesses. Networking is crucial. It makes you value and appreciate our local products even more. You come to understand everything they have been through to reach the final product. You contribute and cooperate more when it comes to buying a local product. The importance of having a sustainable product is good for all of us who live on this island.
It opens up opportunities. You will notice that there is no place for competition, but rather a spirit of sharing, supporting, uplifting, appreciating, and educating one another. I am incredibly proud of all of us who have made all of this possible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Built with Shorthand