(In the photo, the three founders)

Antonio Espinosa is the CEO of AUARA, a mineral water brand that invests 100% of its dividends in bringing drinking water to people who do not have it, and also manufactures its bottles with 100% recycled R-Pet plastic. We talk with him to know more about their company and how they feel being finalists in South Summit.

What does South Summit mean for you? What do you expect from this event?

It means being among the best startups in an unbeliveable environment and in front of unbeliveable people. To me, having a social enterprise like Auara among other top startups is something to celebrate, it means social values are turning into a strong feature in the entrepreneurship environment, and I think it is great news that top events like South Summit are puting the focus on this.

We expect to do great networking and to have the chance to meet potential investors and partners. And obviously, we expect to have a great time and learn a lot.

Why did you decide to participate in the competition?

Who would not want to be present at South Summit? We saw we might have a chance to be selected, so we did not hessitate.

Why did you decide to start your business and how did you come up with the idea?

Our idea was not to start a business, our idea was to do something good for the world. We decided we wanted to help the poorest of the poor to have access to clean water, and the we decied that the way to do so would be through a social enterprise. And one decided it would be a social enterprise, the decision was easy. If our social mission was water, the product to sale would be water as well.

Why your company is useful for the user?

The user does two great things in a simple way: drinking water, and helping others drink water. It is not necessary anymore to give an account number or sign up on an NGO website, simply changing the water brand you chose daily has a great impact on the world.

How did you feel when you knew you were finalist?

I Scream. Team gets excited. Team screams.

What do you think it will happen in the future of startups?

Startups will be social startups. Social startups will be startups. No difference. I believe one of the great differences a startup can make to disrupt a market is not only be more innovative in terms of technollogy, marketing or business model, but also have a social and environmental focus. Consumers do not only want good products, they want brands with values they feel identified with.

What advice would you give to those who want to participate in South Summit?

Do it. Well, first start something great. And then, do it.

What does being an entrepreneur mean for you?

Risk, insecurity, low income, stress... but all of it compensated with passion, excitement, sense of purpose, happiness...

What´s your dream in life?

Build strong meaning and share it with people; make the world a better place (trully better), fighting material and spiritual poverty; find happiness working for others happiness.