In the bustling city of Bogotá, a unique brewery has emerged as a beacon of hope and reconciliation. La Trocha, a Colombian brewery founded by former Farc members, is not just about brewing beer; it’s about brewing peace.

Doris Suárez, a co-founder of La Trocha, is a former Farc member who served 14 years in prison. Today, she is one of the many ex-combatants striving to reintegrate into civilian life after the 2016 peace deal. The brewery, which she co-founded with 10 other former guerillas, has become a cultural hub, educating visitors about Colombia’s violent history and its journey towards peace.

La Trocha’s first beer, Coromoro, is a testament to the company’s roots. The rich toasty malt notes, the slight aftertaste of coffee, and the hints of citrus are what make Coromoro so tasty, says Suárez. The beer reminds her of the mountains where she once lived, and she describes it as “very, very delicious”.

The brewery produces six different beers, which are sold in bars across Bogotá and five other cities. Their latest offering, La Fariana, is a tribute to the Farc members and is labelled with a picture of a dove and a resting rifle. This innovative approach to branding has not only helped the company gain recognition but also spread their message of peace.

In 2020, La Trocha opened La Casa de la Paz (the house of peace), a cultural space dedicated to reconciliation. This three-storey building, adorned with graffiti and posters promoting peace and justice, hosts events, film screenings, and guided tours. It serves as a platform for open discussions on Colombia’s violent history and its road to peace.

La Trocha’s journey from being former guerillas to successful craft brewers is a story of resilience and hope. It’s a testament to the power of peace and reconciliation, and how they can transform lives and communities. As Suárez puts it, “It’s what helps me to wake up every day, to get up with courage and be able to offer the best that we farianas can^“.