Meet the Ghanaian founder behind the world’s first organic hemp-infused vodka

Clarence Darkwa and Jay Black are the founders of Fiyori Vodka, the world’s first organic hemp-infused vodka. The duo said the inspiration behind their creation stemmed from their desire to create a high-quality vodka that not only tasted exceptional but also offered health benefits.

“Hemp seeds, known for their rich nutritional profile—full of essential fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants—were a natural choice. We wanted to fuse wellness with indulgence, and that’s how the idea of an organic hemp-infused vodka was born. Fiyori became a product that combines the best of both worlds: premium vodka and the benefits of organic hemp seeds while maintaining a smooth, sophisticated taste,” the founders told Black Enterprise.

Darkwa grew up in Ghana in West Africa before he moved to Nashville with his family when he was 10. After serving in the U.S. military, he started several businesses before Fiyori.

Being in an industry that is predominantly white, Darkwa and Black described the journey towards creating the world’s first organic hemp-infused vodka as an “exciting one.” According to them, the process started with sourcing high-quality, organic hemp seeds that met their rigorous standards for sustainability and purity.

They then experimented with the infusion process to achieve the perfect balance of flavor without compromising the vodka’s smoothness. Despite the “exciting” journey towards the creation of this unique brand, one of the biggest challenges they faced was navigating regulatory hurdles and educating consumers about the difference between hemp and cannabis. Despite these obstacles, they remained committed to crafting a unique product showcasing hemp seeds’ natural benefits.

“The decision to use organic ingredients was rooted in our belief that consumers deserve a clean, pure product without harmful additives,” they said. “Hemp seeds have numerous health benefits, and we wanted to preserve those qualities through an organic process. This dedication to integrity reflects Fiyori’s mission to offer a premium, health-conscious vodka while supporting sustainable farming practices.”

The entrepreneurs said the infusion of hemp definitely sets Fiyori apart in many ways, adding that hemp adds a subtle nutty flavor and offers potential health benefits like boosting heart health, reducing inflammation, and protecting neurological functions.

“Consumers have been thrilled to discover vodka that not only tastes smooth but also may contribute to their overall well-being. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many customers surprised by how smooth our vodka is and delighted by the potential health perks,” Darkwa and Black told Black Enterprise.

Touching on the future of their brand, the duo said Fiyori fits perfectly into the growing trend of health-conscious and organic spirits. They added that as more people recognize the benefits of hemp and as regulations continue to evolve, they believe hemp-infused spirits will become more popular.