Audrey Hands: Shaking Up the Industry with Passion and Grit
Audrey Hands , Beverage Consultant, Marketing, Global Advocacy
Strategy & Creative Consultant @rayocdmx @fonicocdmx @maisonartemisiamx
has carved her own path, inspired by strong female mentors and driven by the mission to empower others. From learning the craft to becoming a role model herself, Hands shares her journey, the challenges of being a woman behind the bar, and the importance of resilience, mentorship, and community. As she leads initiatives for workplace safety and professional growth, she proves that being a bartender is about more than just mixing drinks—it’s about shaking up the industry for the better.
Altos: Which female bartender was your main mentor or role model in the industry? How did she influence your career?
Audrey Hands: I was lucky to have several role models who took me under their wing as I was growing in the industry. One of the first was Camille Vidal, who encouraged me to be part of the first Femmes du Bar in London! Definitely, my bar “big sister,” who taught me so much with her tough love, is Esther Medina Cuesta (IYKYK).
At what point did you realize that you had become a source of inspiration for other women in the industry?
A.H.: First of all, thank you! It is a true honor to know that I can share voices, teach, and learn from our industry. I first realized it when people started telling me that, as an ambassador, I knew how to represent a brand and culture in such a vivid way—helping people connect with them and relate. Our industry is full of incredible talent, and one of my goals is to support and help people grow.
How do you handle the specific challenges of being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry?
A.H.: Climbing up any career as a woman has its ups and downs—resilience is definitely one of our driving forces. To be honest, it isn’t an easy road. Unfortunately, I am one of many, many women who have suffered from abuse. What can we do? Speak up, train teams to look out for their colleagues, and build support systems.
Can you share an experience where you helped another bartender grow professionally?
A.H.: Over the years, I have been proud to accompany bartenders and brand ambassadors in their work, careers, and life choices. It is beautiful to see someone with so much potential and be able to help guide them on their path.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career as a bartender?
A.H.: Find your community and mentors. Never do anything just for the sake of being “cool” or trying to impress people when you are not comfortable with it. Keep a clear boundary between work and partying—party on your own time and when you feel like it, not when your bosses or colleagues tell you to.
How do you think the community of female bartenders can continue to grow and support each other?
A.H.: Being in Mexico, I think it is one of the countries with the highest percentage of women in the industry. It is inspiring to see this strong community and how, across the country, we stay in touch and support each other.
How important is networking with other women in the industry for you? How has it benefited you personally?
A.H.: It is extremely important—first, to share your story and learn from others. Additionally, women’s support extends beyond events and collaborations; it can be as simple as helping each other with kids, pets, or chores because we all know that sometimes a sister just can’t juggle everything alone.
Is there any project or initiative that currently excites you and is helping to empower more women in the industry?
A.H.: On March 5th, we held the first round of panel discussions featuring inspiring women from the industry, who shared their experiences in the beverage sector and their top career success tips. It was open to everyone, and in the evening, we also held a fundraising event. I hope this is just the first of many meaningful events where we can connect and inspire our community.
I am also working on a hospitality well-being and safety project inspired by the many stories I have heard from women (and men) regarding inequality, violence, bullying, and more. I hope this project will help empower women and create a safer work environment for employees in the hospitality sector.
Definitely, Audrey is proof that being a bartender goes far beyond pouring drinks—it’s about leadership, resilience, and building a community that uplifts and empowers! Through mentorship, advocacy, and her unwavering commitment to improving the industry, she continues to inspire a new generation of bartenders to stand their ground, support one another, and push for change.