Black Woman Breaks Barriers in the Spirits Industry

 

The ready-to-drink cocktail market is booming, but few brands combine authenticity, craftsmanship, and luxury like PURFIX Cocktails. Founded by African American entrepreneur Kawanna Pleasant, her innovative brand sets a new standard for pre-made cocktails.

A Harlem native with over a decade of experience in the art of mixology, Kawanna’s journey began behind the bar, where she mastered the science of cocktail creation while serving an elite clientele. But she always had a goal of doing more. Her passion for mixology led her to create her signature drink, Paradise Rum Punch, a tropical blend that balances bold flavors with a smooth, refreshing finish. After three years of perfecting the recipe, she launched PURFIX Cocktails, bringing a fresh new perspective to the spirits industry.

Now available in stores across the country, PURFIX Cocktails has quickly become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. What sets Kawanna apart is her commitment to craftsmanship and convenience—she’s ensuring that consumers can enjoy bar-quality drinks without the need for a bartender. With a focus on premium ingredients and innovative flavors, she is carving out a space in an industry traditionally dominated by big-name liquor brands.

Kawanna’s success is not just about the drinks—it’s about representation and empowerment. As an African American female entrepreneur, she is paving the way for other women of color to break into the beverage industry. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose, proving that with the right mix of talent and vision, anything is possible.. Her journey from bartender to business mogul is not only a testament to her dedication but also an inspiring example of breaking barriers in an industry where diversity has been historically underrepresented.

“I’ve always believed that a great cocktail is about more than just ingredients—it’s about the experience and the story behind it,” says Kawanna. “With PURE FIX, we’re sharing that experience and making it available to everyone who loves a great drink.”

Now, with the brand expanding nationally, she’s making high-quality cocktails available for anyone, anytime. “I wanted to make premium drinks that were easy to enjoy at home,” Kawanna explains.

But PURFIX represents much more than great beverages—it’s a symbol of empowerment in an industry where people of color have often faced challenges. According to Pronghorn, Black Americans represent 12% of alcohol consumers across categories but makeup just 7.8% of the sector’s labor force and 2% of executives in the industry. Kawanna, as a Black woman business owner, is determined to break those barriers. “I’ve faced my share of challenges, but I want to pave the way for others. It’s about showing women, especially women of color, that they can have a seat at the table,” she shares.

The spirits industry has seen a rise in diversity in recent years, but with only 1 in 10 Black people working in the industry compared to their white counterparts, there is still work to be done. Kawanna’s story serves as both a challenge and an inspiration to others looking to break into the space.

With PURFIX Cocktails continuing to grow, new flavors on the way, and national expansion underway, the brand is positioning itself as a leader in luxury, convenience, and inclusivity. “At PURFIX, it’s not just about the product; it’s about opening doors for others and creating a lasting impact in this industry,” Kawanna says.

Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking for a convenient way to enjoy a premium cocktail, PURFIX is the ultimate pour-and-enjoy experience. Through her journey, Kawanna Pleasant proves that when it comes to quality, anyone can rise above—no matter the odds.