June 1 – Prairie View A&M University’s Cooperative Extension Program’s Harris County Agent Kimberly Perry helped put two female-owned businesses on a path to success. This is a story of how persistence pays off. More than a year and a half ago, CAHS’ Cooperative Extension Program began to collaborate with three ladies who owned a business known as “TEAinTEXAS.”
At the time, the goal was to find local herb producers to incorporate locally grown herbs into “TEAinTEXAS” tea blends as each of its tea blends has a Texas theme. The company owners attended a meeting at PVAMU and laid out their goals and plans.
CAHS Dean and Director of Land Grant Programs, Gerard D’Souza attended the meeting with Research Scientist, Aruna Weerasooriya, who provided advice about the correct type of herbs. Program Specialist Mr. Rafash Brew provided a cost analysis worksheet, and Program Specialist, Kesha Henry found the proper dryer to preserve the quality of herbs.
Since then, Cooperative Extension Program’s Waller County Agent, Mr. Steadman Douglas, and Perry began searching for farmers to grow the herbs, quality-test, and package them. The tea business opened their doors for a tour of their facility and a tea tasting. Months went by, and many farmers declined to grow the herbs. Through-out the year, Perry continued to search for a grower and remained in close contact with Mrs. Brenda Pruss, one of the owners of TEAinTEXAS.
Owners of A Plantz Life and TEAinTEXAS, (L-R) Gina Brown, Anita Barrera, and Brenda Preuss. Not pictured is Lee Garcia.
After much rejection, Perry asked a Texas farmer and owner of A Plantz Life, Gina Brown, to consider growing the herbs, and she eagerly accepted the challenge.
Perry was thrilled to learn that Mrs. Brown, a tea connoisseur with a genuine appreciation for quality herbs, also owns Pecan Orchard. The two female-owned businesses will be joining forces this fall. According to Perry, this is a “Total win, win!”
Kimberly Perry, Ph.D., P.E.
Harris County Extension Agent, AgNR
Knperry@pvamu.edu
(713) 274-0961