The Mas Yukawa Foundation is incredibly proud to celebrate our collaboration with the Urban Experience Alliance in the creation of Okome, a Japanese Rice Lager brewed in partnership with Steel & Oak Brewing Co. and PiDGiN Restaurant Ltd.
Okome made its public debut on May 1st at the 2025 Urban Experience Alliance Symposium, marking a meaningful launch that brought together community, creativity, and care. From there, the beer was canned and distributed to local liquor stores and restaurants, with proceeds supporting Mind The Bar, a not-for-profit organization offering critical mental health support to hospitality workers.
We are even more thrilled to share that Okome SOLD OUT in stores in less than a month!
A heartfelt thank you to Jorden Foss of Steel & Oak, Brandon Grossutti of PiDGiN, and Nic from Mind The Bar, who all spoke at the Symposium reception about the vital importance of supporting our local hospitality sector and the mental health of its workers. (Pictured: Jorden, Brandon, and Nic in conversation at the reception.)
This collaboration came to life through the UEA Project Labs, a new initiative dedicated to creating meaningful, cross-industry partnerships. As part of this effort, the Mas Yukawa Foundation proudly sourced and donated a special BC-grown rice from Artisan Sakemaker on Granville Island, which helped shape Okome’s unique character.
This project is a testament to what can happen when culture, craft, and community come together. Thank you to everyone who supported Okome—and to those who raised a glass with us.
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