This past week, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Lima and Ica, Peru, for a mission trip and study abroad experience with my organization, Christian Business Leaders. During our time there, we fully immersed ourselves in the culture—sampling a variety of Peruvian cuisine, exploring local markets, and engaging with the people of Peru. One of the most impactful moments of our trip was visiting a church in Lima, where a generous couple shared their inspiring story of starting a coffee shop as a way to serve their community.
Jemmy and Anna Rose, owners of a thriving coffee shop in the heart of Lima, have a remarkable journey. Jemmy, whose parents were coffee bean farmers, met Anna Rose, an intern from Austin, during her time in Peru. After getting married, they pursued their vision of opening a coffee shop at their church, which eventually expanded into multiple locations across the city. During the COVID-19 pandemic, their business struggled to remain profitable, as they prioritized giving back to their church. Despite the challenges, they partnered with the church once again for support and, through perseverance, successfully rebuilt their business. Today, they continue to serve outstanding Peruvian coffee while managing multiple locations.
In addition to our time in Lima, we partnered with Camino De Vida to support their outreach efforts in Ica. We visited a refuge home, where we had the opportunity to connect with the residents, teach and play with the children, and distribute water to families affected by a devastating landslide. This experience provided me with my first real glimpse of life beyond the United States, broadening my perspective and deepening my appreciation for different cultures.
This trip pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. It not only strengthened my faith but also inspired me to explore more of the world and seek opportunities to make a meaningful impact. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend my spring break.
