Never Have I Ever Dreamed: Visiting the Headquarters of My Favorite Beverage Brand

When I was little, my favorite drink was Coca-Cola. I'd save up my pocket money just to buy a Coke bottle from the small convenience store near my house. The seller knew me so well that as soon as I walked in, he'd have a Coke ready for me—sometimes even gifting me an extra one, allowing me to enjoy two. They say Coke isn't good for your health, but for a time, I couldn't resist its affordable, refreshing allure. Living in a tropical country, a cool, invigorating drink was always welcome. Besides, Coke tasted great; sometimes, I'd mix it with milk, convincing myself it was an energy booster.

Coca-Cola meant everything to me back then. I proudly told my classmates, "I drink Coke every day." But never did my twelve-year-old self imagine standing inside Coca-Cola headquarters, sampling as many drinks as I wanted while waiting eagerly to learn more about the company. And never did I imagine watching an unpublished Coca-Cola ad, my favorite drink, and being asked for my opinion before its release—knowing that Coca-Cola executives would listen to my voice.

Sitting there, looking up at the ceiling, a smile on my heart, I listened to the executive share all the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives my beloved beverage brand had undertaken. I already knew so much about the brand, and as I stood in the Robert W. Woodruff Museum, I felt inspired—inspired to one day become part of something as significant, or perhaps even start my own business that could inspire another little girl somewhere by simply doing the right thing.

Reflecting on these experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities the National Millennial GenZ Committee has given me. Their support has opened doors I never dreamed possible. Visiting the Coca-Cola Museum a year ago was enlightening, but nothing compares to being inside the company itself—conversing with executives, contributing to their missions, and witnessing firsthand how a global brand integrates sustainability and community impact into its core values.

In every sip of Coca-Cola, I now taste not just a beverage, but a legacy of innovation and responsibility. It's a reminder that from childhood dreams to professional aspirations, every step forward is a chance to create something extraordinary—for myself, for others, and for the future.