Juice Bar Benefits Body and Soul
At the intersection of Christ, community, scholarship, and service, exists a space where social justice and business join together. Azusa Pacific University alumna Jessica Ng ’10, is the founder of Body Juice, a business meant to promote a healthy lifestyle while also supporting efforts to end human trafficking. Set to open in the city of Azusa in early 2018, Ng’s social venture will draw upon her education and passion for helping the oppressed.
Ng graduated with a global studies degree, which equipped her with the knowledge and skills to respond to complex issues confronting today's world. Global studies students participate in a Global Learning Term where students immerse themselves in a cross-cultural setting traveling to Third World sites where they spend an average of 6 to 7 months. Ng spent her term in Shadi, China, where her eyes were opened to the stark realities of human trafficking. During a subsequent trip to Thailand, Ng recognized the Lord’s calling upon her life to help end the spread of this form of modern slavery.
Ng said a God-inspired dream led her to start her business. “I realized that a juice shop that promotes healing and health would be the perfect avenue to raise awareness and funds for this worthy cause.”
A scholar at heart, Ng holds a post bachelor’s degree in health sciences and previously worked at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She drew upon this expertise while conducting extensive research about the juicing industry. Her knowledge of nutrition and wellness, coupled with information from medical doctors, provided the necessary foundation to launch her business with partner Ben Wells.
Body Juice officially began selling at farmers markets in May with encouraging success. “We were selling out while sharing our story with people,” said Ng. “Customers started coming back because they genuinely enjoyed the juices, and felt an improvement in their health.” Popular menu items include The Fix, with pineapple, mint, red grapes, ginger, spinach, and kale designed to fight cold, allergies, fatigue, or joint pain, and The Gym Rat containing cherries, blueberries, raw cacao, almond milk, spinach, and apples, created to build muscle, alleviate cramping, and provide an antioxidant boost.
During APU’s Homecoming Weekend, on October 21, Body Juice will be at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Homecoming Reception from 12-2 p.m. and also on campus from 3-6 p.m., serving their delicious and nutritious organic drinks to students, families, and APU employees.
Posted: October 13, 2017