Jessi Flynn is the Co-Founder, Managing Director, and Head Brewer of Kweza Craft Brewery, Rwanda’s pioneering women-owned and women-led craft brewery. With a background in landscape architecture, agriculture, and community development, Jessi brings a unique perspective to brewing that integrates sustainability, cultural heritage, and innovation.
Originally from the United States, Jessi moved to Rwanda in 2017 and soon became fascinated with the historic brewing culture and grains. Mentored by Steve Beauchesne at Beau’s Brewery in Canada, Jessi incorporated Kweza in January of 2020 – just in time for COVID. The brewery’s vision is to showcase Rwanda’s rich natural bounty through beer, while creating opportunities for women across the entire value chain – from faming local grains to brewing, management and leadership.
Under Jessi’s leadership, Kweza has gained recognition for its innovative use of sorghum, an indigenous and climate-resilient grain that is central to Rwandan food traditions. By working directly with local farmers and experimenting with native botanicals, she has helped position Kweza at the forefront of sustainable brewing in Africa. Her work not only expands the possibilities of craft beer but also strengthens local agriculture and empowers women in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
In 2025, Kweza Craft Brewery won a Bronze Medal in the African Speciality Beer/African Speciality Beer category at the African Beer Cup for its Inzovu IPA, adding to its growing list of achievements. Kweza’s beers can be enjoyed at its Kigali taproom, where they highlight the flavours of Rwanda while appealing to a global audience of beer lovers.
As a brewer, entrepreneur, and advocate for sustainable and inclusive practices, Jessi Flynn embodies the spirit of craft brewing: creativity, resilience, and community.