Social Impact
SOCIAL IMPACT FOR THE GREATER GOOD
Our team's background in microfinance and international development instilled in us a firm belief that so many people around the world are talented, hard-working and creative, and they only need an opportunity to showcase it. Rather than give handouts or donations to communities in need, we believe in creating opportunities for these communities to use their talents and drive for the betterment of their own lives.
As the old adage goes, "Give a man a fish, he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, he'll eat for a lifetime" only in our case, the communities we work with have learned and perfected their craft over generations. They are experts in their field: leatherworking, shoemaking, weaving, and so much more. We work collaboratively to design new ways of interpreting these traditional crafts, bringing together a blend of heritage and innovation.
Our main hub of creation is our workshop outside of Antigua, Guatemala, where we employ traditional shoemakers to bring your shoes to life. Beyond our workshop are a grassroots network of women-run cooperatives, small businesses, and artisan groups who create our woven textiles by hand, in their homes or communities, surrounded by their family. Beyond Guatemala, we also work with amazing artisan groups in Panama and Mexico, with more communities to come. Each and every product encompasses an entire supply chain made up of people, families, and small businesses.