Andrew Shook BBA, NRP isn't your typical coffee trader. He's a man of passion, dedication, and adventure, his heart as wild as the Peruvian rainforest he calls his office. By day, he leads Sunrise Trading LLC, meticulously sourcing the finest beans from the heart of the Amazon, driven by a keen business acumen. But beneath the surface lies a profound commitment to ethical sourcing and a love for the natural world.
A certified paramedic with extensive wilderness medical training, Andrew's connection to remote communities runs deep. "I really like being in the jungle," he says, his voice echoing the quiet strength of the rainforest, "sourcing these incredible farms under the jungle canopy." His commitment to sustainability resonates in every step, ensuring Sunrise Trading partners with producers who prioritize natural cultivation. "If the soil smells of chemicals, we move on," he says firmly, underlining his commitment to organic and sustainable practices.
Andrew's journey extends beyond the coffee bean. He finds deep satisfaction in donating medical equipment to outposts in the Amazon rainforest. His dedication to supporting the communities that cultivate the coffee demonstrates his deep connection to the land and its people, a blend of passion and purpose.
Tracy Velita Director of South America, Sunrise Trading LLC
Tracy Velita is a Certified Public Accountant with a specialization in Project Management.
Tracy was born in the Oxapampa Valley of Peru. She comes from a strong family of coffee farmers, and she has a deep understanding of the coffee industry. She is skilled in the physical and sensory analysis of coffee, and she is passionate about ensuring that coffee is grown in harmony with nature.
Sunrise Trading LLC has an office in Peru, where Tracy oversees the coffee procurement process. She works with coffee farmers to ensure that the coffee is of the highest quality. She also monitors the coffee farms from harvest to selection, and she educates farmers on how to grow coffee in a sustainable way.
Tracy has previously worked for a United Nations agency, the Ministry of the Environment, and the Ministry of Housing, among other institutions. She has extensive experience in the administration of environmental projects.
When you work with Tracy, you can expect 100% transparency. She is committed to providing her clients with a positive and hassle-free experience.
Tracy is a nature lover. She believes that "without forests and without coffee, there is no life."
Terrance Ryan brings a unique blend of experience and passion to his role as a coffee trader. A proud USAF Veteran with active and reserve service, Terrance honed his skills in both medicine and aircraft maintenance. This instilled in him a strong work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in high-pressure environments.
Following his military service, Terrance spent over 30 years immersed in the world of restaurants. He navigated the fast-paced environment of both full-service operations and quick-service chains, developing a keen understanding of the restaurant industry's needs and the vital role coffee plays within it. This background allows him to connect with clients on a deeper level, anticipating their requirements and sourcing the perfect beans to elevate their coffee offerings.
Terrance's recent travels to meet the Yanesha people, a indigenous community renowned for their exceptional coffee production methods, perfectly encapsulate his approach to sourcing. He describes them as "friendly, outgoing, and brimming with pride in their culture and the natural processes they use to create such a phenomenal product." This appreciation for tradition and commitment to quality resonates deeply with Terrance, and he strives to build strong, lasting relationships with these coffee growers, ensuring fair compensation and sustainable practices. Terrance’s diverse background, combined with his passion for coffee and respect for its origins, make him a valuable asset in the world of coffee trading.
Antonio Colina Jr. Trader
Antonio brings a wealth of experience in hospitality and customer experience to our team. His career path has been a fascinating journey through entrepreneurship, with a common thread of enriching the lives of others. Antonio has consistently focused on building strong client relationships and ensuring a positive experience. His natural ability to solve problems and gravitate towards "The Gourmet" makes him a perfect fit for our company.
Antonio's passion goes beyond just great service. His connection to the Yanesha people is truly unique. The first time he visited their land, he felt a profound sense of belonging, a feeling of returning to a long-lost home. This connection fuels his dedication to representing them and their exceptional coffee. For Antonio, this isn't just a job; it's an opportunity to share the beauty of the Yanesha culture and a superior, sustainable product with the world.
When you enjoy a cup of our coffee, you're not just experiencing a delicious beverage, you're supporting a community and a way of life.
Many paths lead to a love of great coffee, and Zane's journey is no exception. With a background steeped in the vibrant energy of the entertainment and service industries, Zane brings a unique perspective to our team. From recording studios and festival sound engineering to planning conventions and mastering the art of hospitality, Zane has a knack for creating experiences that leave a lasting impression.
A life-changing encounter within the cloud forests of Peru shifted Zane's focus towards a deeper connection with the world around us. Living amongst the Yanesha people, renowned stewards of the rainforest, ignited a passion for sustainable practices. Witnessing their meticulous cultivation of coffee, a love for the plant and its potential bloomed within him. He was particularly struck by the positive impact of fair trade practices – Sunrise Training's commitment to medical aid and fair wages for the cultivators resonated deeply. Now, Zane utilizes his diverse background and newfound passion to bridge the gap between these dedicated farmers and coffee enthusiasts worldwide, ensuring a delicious cup while making a positive difference.
Tracy Velita is a Certified Public Accountant with a specialization in Project Management.
