Meet the Grainger Market Traders: The Forest Boost

Tell us a bit more about yourself – how did you end up moving from Brazil to Newcastle?

I’m originally from Minas Gerais, one of the friendliest states in Brazil and the land of coffee beans! I moved to Newcastle in 2020 and completely fell in love with the city. There’s such a warm, welcoming energy here that reminds me of home in many ways. The people, the sense of community and the character of the city really captured my heart and I’m so happy to now call Newcastle my home.

What attracted you to Grainger Market?

I’ve been working in markets since 2021 and opening a business with a permanent home had always been a dream of mine. The Grainger Market has such a strong sense of history, culture and community and it felt like the perfect place to grow something special. What makes it even better is that we’re like one big family here. All the traders look after each other, support one another and celebrate each other’s successes. There’s a genuine feeling of belonging and that means everything when you’re building a business.

Can you tell us a bit more about your signature açaí bowls and their health benefits?

Our açaí comes directly from Brazil and we serve it the same way I grew up enjoying it back home. Açaí is a very special fruit because it only grows in the Amazon rainforest. It’s incredibly rich in antioxidants, which support overall health. It’s also a great source of healthy fats, fibre and natural energy, making it perfect for boosting stamina, supporting digestion and keeping you feeling full and nourished throughout the day. For me, it’s not just food; it’s a taste of my childhood, my roots and my culture.

What is your most popular product? And what’s your personal favourite?

Definitely our açaí bowls. They’re what we’re known for and what our customers keep coming back for. My personal favourite, though, is the Golden Glow super juice. It’s freshly pressed in-house with carrot, orange, fresh turmeric, apple and pineapple. It’s vibrant, refreshing and packed with nutrients – perfect for an energy boost and for supporting the immune system.

You’ve been in the market for over a year now – what’s your favourite memory from your time at Grainger Market so far?

It’s hard to choose just one because every day brings something great! A favourite part of my job is engaging with our lovely customers and building those connections. I love teaching people how to say ‘açaí’ and seeing their reactions when they try it for the first time. Those little moments of joy, laughter and cultural exchange mean everything to me – they’re such an enjoyable part of everyday life in the market.

What plans do you have for the future of The Forest Boost?

We’ve been working behind the scenes over the past few months on something really exciting. Keep your eyes peeled for some very big news coming soon! We’ll be joining forces with old friends, fellow start-up founders here in Newcastle who, like me, have built their businesses from the ground up. It’s a collaboration I’m incredibly proud of and I truly believe it’s going to take The Forest Boost to the next level. Watch this space!

The Forest Boost is located in Unit 61 on Alley 2 in Grainger Market. For more information visit www.instagram.com/theforestboost.

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