Zero Proofed Turns Alcohol Culture on its Head
By Rebekah Moan
One of the aspects that makes Prout so unique and revolutionary is that it’s an entire systems-change phenomenon. It’s a theory, a practice, a movement, a guide for living that focuses on creating a healthy, harmonious society that values all beings. One tangible way to do that is to create a space where people are in harmony with themselves. That’s exactly what sisters Priyanka and Chirasmita Kompella have accomplished with their business Zero Proofed.
Zero Proofed reimagines how people can meet, socialize, and build community in such a way that’s not damaging to their bodies. Instead of centering around alcohol, Zero Proofed shows there’s fun to be had and connections to be made in sober environments. Using non-alcoholic drinks that aren’t juice or soda, and sporting names like “Pear Ginger Mule” and “Blood Orange Paloma,” these drinks have all the appeal of their alcoholic counterparts with none of the alcohol.
In addition to creating non-alcoholic drink recipes, the Kompellas host pop-up events in LA and Denver. Attendees can drink and socialize at poolside yoga, speakeasies, and silent discos. Primarily what they’re selling is an experience, all without brain fog, hangovers, and recovery time.
“We’re entering an era of entrepreneurship where innovators are building community spaces and prioritizing experiences that enable people to blossom and embrace their authentic selves,” Chirasmita said. “Every time we host an event, we witness how cultivating the space for people to socialize with others, without the presence of alcohol, transforms their ability to build lasting connections and drive conversations towards personal and societal progress.”
People of all ages, not just Gen Z, attend Zero Proofed events and in doing so meet their future business co-founders and new friends. Zero Proofed creates a platform for meaningful discussions and connections where everyone can be more fully themselves without the influence of alcohol.
“Zero Proofed gives our community the opportunity to take a step back, unlearn the constructs or preconceptions around how they interact, and reimagine how they build relationships,” she said.
Priyanka adds, “Historically, the entertainment industry has been intertwined with alcohol. Live music, festivals, and dance have all become synonymous with alcoholic events. However, as alcohol-free beverage options become more widely available, people are opting to enjoy these entertainment events without alcohol. This is completely challenging the role alcohol has played in entertainment. Our guests at Zero Proofed continue to tell us that alcohol had been masking their importance of genuine community and present connection.”
By connecting with yourself and others in a sober way, there’s room for something more to emerge. The backbone of Prout is neohumanism, a philosophy that encourages universalism, and social spaces filled with people of all ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities support that neohumanistic outlook. Instead of erecting walls, neohumanism builds bridges. And that’s exactly what the Kompella sisters are doing with Zero Proofed, one pop-up at a time.
To learn more about Zero Proofed, visit www.getzeroproofed.com.