Jobs-wise, tea plays a huge role in the regions where its grown. We can create value at the community level that isn't charity, but socioeconomic empowerment.
Tea is produced by some of the most vulnerable cultures but is served to the wealthiest. Help us usher in a new wave of tea appreciation, that includes appreciating the very people who pick the leaves we brew.
We think the world of our tea, and hope you do too.
Why tea?
Tea brings so much value that mainstream consumers are yet to fully appreciate.
When tea is made right, it tastes great and brings many amazing healthy properties that out-rival other beverages.
Tea so effectively creates a medium that balances out the rigours and routines of life. Enjoying it often allows us to be more introspective, content and at peace. It's also great for wonderful and meaningful connections with people we care about.
Why Northern Thailand?
Northern Thailand: A key role in human trafficking routes.
Thailand is steeped in natural beauty, a lovingly hospitable culture and an exciting burgeoning economy. Being a regional hub however, poverty and exploitation has become concentrated in this region. With approximately 425,500 people currently enslaved, Thailand has the highest prevalence of modern slavery in South-East Asia.
Economic refugees from Laos and Myanmar enter Thailand through Northern Thailand in search of employment. Additionally, "stateless" hilltribe groups reside in this region, and are not considered Thai citizens. They have no access to public education and healthcare, and are restricted in where they can search for and obtain work.
Socioeconomic vulnerability, poor job options and limited ways to achieve a quality life gives rise to a high risk of exploitation.
threeonesix's partner: A local specialty tea producer
Our tea producer's plantation was established with the dream of growing Chiang Rai into a specialty tea region. The family-run estate is the cornerstone for a local tea cooperative structure, that supports many local hilltribe tea farms. They also directly employ, and provide housing for 300 hilltribe members and people from Myanmar. Their tea quality is exceptional, but is not outshone by their passion for lasting community empowerment.
By supporting their work through developing new customer markets, we create more safe local job options and ultimately, an alternative to exploitation.