About Coqui
Jorge decided on naming the store after his childhood nickname (Coqui) because it is reminiscent of all the things he treasured and loved growing up.
Jorge grew up in New York, but has been a Rochester resident sine 1990. He achieved a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and completed a Masters in Business Administration E-Business.
His birthplace is Trujillo, Peru South America. His family moved to the United States in the early 1960's. Jorge's youth was spent in Brooklyn, New York with frequent visits and stays in Peru.
His first language was home-spoken Spanish. In the mid 90's, Jorge proudly became a US citizen. During his trips, he was always fascinated by the intricate artwork and crafts that his fellow Latin Americans produced. The vibrant colors and richness of cultural influences greatly appealed to him. Jorge loves to travel and select these unique pieces for his store.
In 2007, after many years of corporate life, Jorge decided he would fulfill his dreams of owning his own business and offering a discerning public the beautiful artwork, handcrafts and treasures that Latin America has to offer. And so, Coqui's Journeys, Inc. was born.
About the Store & Its Social Conscience
Coqui's is an organization that has chosen its storefront location, in order to support the local Rochester economy and its surroundings. The store's vision includes a product selection from local artists, in order to be inclusive of local talent.
With its eye on social awareness, another bulk of the products sold are from certified Federation Fair Trade Associates. Although not an affiliate of Fair Trade, Coqui's Journeys, Inc. feels there is a strong obligation in helping the economic well-being of impoverished international artisans, by personally buying directly from them and paying a fair price. In this manner, it contributes to its global neighbors by enhancing artisans' living conditions and supporting the arts and crafts of international third world countries. Jorge (Coqui) feels there is much to be said for having lived in these countries firsthand, and understanding the socio-political, cultural and economic nuances of the people of these lands.
One example of reaching out to the global community, is the selection of candles produced by "Mundo de Ninos", a charitable organization in Jorge's home town of Trujillo, Peru. This organzation takes in pre-teen children from substance abuse families, and provides them with the means for self-support through candle-making workshops (sold to support the children's home), recreation, food and schooling. When the children reach 16 years of age, they are released into society, with the hope that they become more productive social citizens and skilled workers.
