Media Release - Launch of Kepa Kwab
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
18 October 2024
Launch of Kepa Kwab: A Bespoke Non-Alcoholic Beverage Celebrating Country, Culture and Community
Kepa Kwab (meaning “beautiful water” in Noongar) marks the launch of Prepare Produce Provide’s (PPP) first bespoke non-alcoholic beverage, designed to celebrate stories of country and its people.
This groundbreaking beverage sets itself apart in the market with its rich story, quality ingredients and strong community focus. Collaboratively designed by a team of experts together with Aboriginal youth and manufactured locally at Funk Drinks Co., Kepa Kwab is a socially conscious, non-alcoholic drink that goes beyond refreshment—it’s an experience.
The design of the can features artwork of the drink’s ingredients created by Nyikina Artist and PPP Youth Ambassador Molly West. A QR code links to a video that tells the story of the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) through song and dance, offering a unique sensory journey that connects the flavours of the drink with country and its stories.
Infused with ethically sourced Australian botanicals and proceeds directly supporting vulnerable youth through PPP’s Djinda Ngardak program, this innovative drink is committed to making a positive impact on both the community and the market.
Kepa Kwab is the first in a line of planned beverages that will showcase the stories of country across Western Australia.
The launch of Kepa Kwab is supported by Buy West Eat Best.
Comments attributed to PPP Founder Catherine MacDougall
We’re working with young Aboriginal people and holding events like the Djinda Ngardak Gala Dinners, and it just didn't seem right to serve something that has had such a detrimental impact in the communities.
We've got the opportunity to work with First Nation young people who are by nature very creative and very artistic. We collaborate with top chefs, educators, Aboriginal Elders and cultural leaders – so we thought let's get all these elements together and create something magical.
There're more than a hundred young people involved in the development of the can. From the artwork by Molly West, to the flavour development at Belmont City College and the Bilya Project including a story, song and dance by Governor Stirling Senior High School and Bassendean Primary School, which is linked on the side of the can.
When we were designing Kepa Kwab, we wanted to focus on something that was really important in everyone’s lives. We want it to be an experience. It’s a celebration of culture, youth and the importance of making healthy choices.
Comments attributed to PPP Youth Ambassador Rishaye Shaw
From a young age growing up in the Kimberley, we were brought in to a life where alcohol is a part of life. It’s not a good thing. We need to break that cycle. Having Kepa Kwab and the stories behind it will be very impactful.
I’m working with young people from across WA and showing them, telling them that it’s ok to have doubts but you can really show yourself and bring forward who you are with culture.
It’s about connecting to culture and our country. For young people we really need to have a connection to country to show who we are.
About Prepare Produce Provide:
Prepare Produce Provide (PPP) is a non-profit organisation established in 2013 dedicated to inspiring vulnerable youth to realise their potential through innovative food education. PPP’s signature program, Djinda Ngardak, was created in 2017 in collaboration with Aboriginal Elders, families, educators and a network of chefs as an innovative response to engage, retain and provide Aboriginal students with post-school pathways.
Links:
Kepa Kwab: www.prepareproduceprovide.org/kepa-kwab-non-alcoholic-beverage
Djinda Ngardak: www.prepareproduceprovide.org/djinda-ngardak2
PPP Website: www.prepareproduceprovide.org
Images: Download
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6PR Interview
Founder Catherine MacDougall and Youth Ambassador Rishaya Shaw were interviewed by Don Hancey on 6PR.