Tired of being bombarded with the bitter bits of business? Want to hear about commerce that strives for a sweet deal for everyone involved? On September 19, Alternative Grounds, one of Toronto's leading purveyors of liquid energy and social justice, will host an awesome event put on by Coburg-based human rights organization Horizons Of Friendship.

Three speakers from organizations in Nicaragua, Honduras, and Ecuador will come together to discuss how cooperatives and micro-enterprise are being used to empower women in their regions. Speakers include Gloria Siesar from the Masaya Women's Cooperative, Teresa Lopez from the Simiente Foundation, and Victoria Alverca from Fapecafes.

While it's great to take action with your dollar and buy that bunch of organic bananas, this is a chance to look even closer at the lives that are affected by our choices as consumers, and have a good cup of coffee while you're at it.

Photo by djrue on Flickr.