Swansea University has presented Joelle Drummond with an honorary Master of Arts degree in recognition of her remarkable achievements as a trailblazing entrepreneur and her significant contributions to industry, ethics, and sustainability.
A graduate of Swansea University, with a BA French and Italian and a master's in Translation and Interpreting, Joelle co-founded the pioneering Drop Bear Beer Co in 2019 alongside her wife, Sarah McNena. The idea for the business emerged from the pair’s frustration with the limited options available in the non-alcoholic beer market.
From these modest beginnings in Joelle’s kitchen, Drop Bear Beer has grown into the UK’s top-rated alcohol-free craft beer specialist and now exports its products to international markets, including Canada and New Zealand.
The company has achieved widespread acclaim for its innovative and inclusive business model. As the world’s first female and LGBTQIA+ founded alcohol-free brewery, Drop Bear Beer consistently challenges stereotypes and aims to diversify the traditionally male-dominated brewing industry. Joelle’s forward-thinking approach extends beyond representation, with the company placing a strong emphasis on ethics and sustainability.
Drop Bear Beer holds the distinction of being Wales’s first certified B-Corp brewery and the world’s first carbon-neutral alcohol-free brewery. These accolades reflect Joelle’s dedication to creating a socially responsible enterprise that aligns with growing consumer demand for sustainable and ethical products.
In 2022, Joelle and Drop Bear Beer received significant recognition at the Wales StartUp Awards, earning titles such as Wales StartUp of the Year, Swansea Bay StartUp of the Year, and Green StartUp of the Year. Additionally, Joelle was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year, highlighting her exceptional leadership and vision.
The company’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its workforce, with half of its employees identifying as queer. The company also has a charity partnership with Galop, which is dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ people who have been victims of abuse and violence. These initiatives underscore Joelle’s mission to make a meaningful impact beyond the business realm.
Drop Bear Beer’s success comes at a time of increasing interest in the “sober-curious” movement, particularly among younger generations who are redefining social norms around alcohol. Joelle’s entrepreneurial journey has also inspired her to embrace visibility, recognising the importance of sharing her story to empower others and champion diversity in leadership.
Upon receiving her honorary award, Joelle Drummond said: “Having had the privilege of graduating twice from Swansea University, receiving an honorary fellowship is a profound honour. I am thrilled at the prospect of continuing to work with the University to deepen the connection between education, entrepreneurship and the most cutting edge of industry.”