In the midst of political strife in Nicaragua, Comox’s Sean MacKinnon has left his business behind temporarily, but he’s not letting his community be forgotten.
MacKinnon and his partner Sally Rubin left their brewery business behind in San Juan del Sur, a small community that is almost entirely sustained by the tourism industry.
The pair has lived there for about three-and-a-half years, but recently returned to the Comox Valley, due to the political unrest in the country. Many civilians have been killed in recent months, a result of a growing opposition to President Daniel Ortega and his government, which opponents call a dictatorship.
MacKinnon said due to the current economic and political climate, a sharp decrease nearly overnight in tourism occurred, and a significant amount of businesses have had to lock up their doors.
“A lot of students want a change and have been doing a peaceful protest, but a lot ended up dying,” he explained. “So many Nicaraguans relied on their jobs to get by but now they are completely stranded. We have closed down temporarily, but we’re still paying staff.”
MacKinnon explained he does not want to turn his back on his community, whom he considers his family.
“They welcomed us with open arms; we want to help people in poverty. Coming back to Canada you realize the Canadian lifestyle - we have so much compared to other places.”
As a result, the pair has organized a beer and yoga fundraiser (Rubin is an experienced yoga instructor) Friday, July 20 at Comox Marina Park.
“(Nicaraguans) are some of the strongest, kindest, most beautiful people we have ever met. Ex-pats, business owners, residents of the San Juan del Sur community have come together to show support but we need help to help them.”
As a brewer, MacKinnon wanted to create a beer garden with games, music, raffle prizes and tastings; he has brought some beers to try, that he made in Nicaragua.
Rubin will host an all-level yoga class from 6 to 7 p.m. (and encourages people to bring their own mat), followed by beer tasting and games.
MacKinnon noted he and Rubin have plans to return to the country, but right now they are focused on doing what they can to help their staff of 25, and the larger community.
“It’s very tough, but we want to help no matter what.”
All proceeds from the fundraiser will support the communities affected.
erin.haluschak@comoxvalleyrecord.com
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