Fifty million people worldwide are victims of modern slavery, with over 70% being women and girls.
It’s a daunting issue, but what if your daily cup of coffee could help? That’s the mission of Simone Ispahani, 29, founder of Social Brew Coffee. Half of all profits from her Hawaiian coffee brand go toward aiding victims of human trafficking.
Simone’s passion for helping others began early, thanks to her parents, who took her on international volunteer missions to Romania and India. “Growing up, I had a pretty comfortable life, but those trips opened my eyes to what life is like for so many people. It inspired me and made me want to keep helping because I feel like that’s the most fulfilling thing you can do in life,” she says.
While attending college in Southern California, Simone was moved by an anti-trafficking awareness event. “Once I heard that it was happening right here in the United States, I couldn’t unhear it,” she explains
Although sex trafficking is what most people associate with human trafficking, the U.S. State Department notes that victims are also exploited for forced labor in industries like hospitality, agriculture, construction, domestic work and even retail services. Simone’s growing awareness led her to intern with an anti-trafficking organization and co-lead a trip to India her senior year to work with survivors. That experience solidified her focus on after-care for victims.
“I met so many women and was hearing their stories, and a lot of them were quite young when they were trafficked as well. It was really eye opening because it made me realize how important after-care is. Once they do escape, they need so much help, there’s so much mental bondage. Awareness and rescue are very important too of course, but rehabilitation and reintegration are also key,” she emphasizes.
Determined to make a difference, Simone brainstormed ways to help. Initially, she dreamed of opening a coffee shop to fundraise and provide jobs for survivors. When the pandemic disrupted her plans, she pivoted to selling ethically sourced coffee beans online. Today, Social Brew is thriving, with its products also sold at select retailers like The Brentwood Country Mart and The Royal Hawaiian shopping center in Oahu.
For Simone, it’s not just about writing a check, she’s committed to ensuring her contributions create real change. “I’m very passionate about this work because it’s personal to me,” Simone says. “I’ve seen the need firsthand, and I want to make sure that every dollar we raise is used effectively. It’s not just about making a sale—it’s about creating real, lasting change.”
Social Brew partners with impactful organizations like Beautiful Feet Wellness in Denver, founded by a survivor of trafficking. This nonprofit offers unique programs like somatic healing, fitness, and mentorship to help survivors process trauma.
Another key partner is a Hawaiian nonprofit dedicated to preventing trafficking through education and providing safe spaces for survivors. Their rehabilitation center, Pearl Haven, offers equine therapy, art classes, and cooking programs. “It’s amazing to see how the contributions from Social Brew are helping to create a safe and nurturing environment for these women and children,” Simone shares.
If you’d like to make your coffee habit count, visit socialbrew.us to shop their ethically sourced beans, roasted and packed in Oahu. And don’t miss their unique pancake mixes for an extra treat!
100% Kona Coffee Single Origin $41.99 12oz
100% Waialua Coffee Single Origin $23.99 12oz
Best Hawaiian Blend. $15.99 12 oz