I met Bobbi years ago and before we could get close, she moved away to Toronto to pursue a career in fashion. She’s the type of person you never forget; a free spirit with bright blue eyes and an infectious smile that could end any war. I recently caught up and her life is completely different from when we last spoke. Tired of working long hours towards unfulfilling projects and feeling limited creatively, she decided to leave it all behind and move to India, the place where she now feels most at peace. There, she was inspired to start her own business, Tribe of Lambs – a jewelry non-profit she describes as a social business bridging the gap between consumerism and compassion. A huge part of the profits go toward fulfilling ToL’s compassion projects. As of recently, ToL was able to build a library, provide solar panels to a children’s home and supply children with backpacks, shoes, winter jackets etc.
What drew you to start Tribe of Lambs?
I was living in northern India and was very touched by the cycles of poverty and the suffering of children. I was also inspired by the talent and history of the artisans in their handicrafts. I wanted to find a way to use my experience and energy to build something which could empower at-risk children. I wanted to do this by bridging a gap between consumers and artisans in a global market. Taking cues off other social businesses & nonprofits in the new “slow fashion” industry such as, Raven & Lily or Krochet kids, we started to build the tribe.
Explain compassionate consumerism and how we can be more mindful of this in our own lives?
With every purchase we make, we are utilizing our power. So often we do not consider the impact made on the larger scale. It’s our goal to support consumers in the journey towards buying ethical and making a stand for a better world by simply shopping wiser. It takes little time and education to really understand which brands and companies are having a positive impact on the world. We are so lucky to live in the age of the Internet, where so many ethical, eco, sustainable and social companies are available online. Shop local, shop small – the supply chains and production methods are much easier to follow. Don’t follow trends, shop less and shop wisely. Times are changing and shopping consciously is the trend of the future, and I’m sure it will stay. We owe it to the people and planet to put our money where our mouths are.
What advice would you give to other women, who are considering starting their own business?
No matter how impossible it seems, go for it anyways. Learn along the way, find a great tribe to work with you or at the least support you in your endeavours. Stay inspired, stay connected to your industry. Keep learning and growing!
How do you stay balanced, personally and professionally, on a daily basis?
I meditate, do yoga, constantly check in with myself. I’ve got a great support base both personally and professionally who help me keep my integrity in check. I eat clean and sleep well. All that being said, i also I go out dancing all night and drink too much, eat chocolate and laugh with the people I love. The personal and professional requires balance along with discipline. My balance requires me to live hard and passionately so that I can be calm and focused.
How can we support Tribe of Lambs?
SHOP, DONATE directly or sign up for our Newsletter at www.tribeoflambs.com…! We are currently working on our 5th compassion project, The Dream Big Project, in support of 56 HIV Positive Children living in Jaipur, Rajasthan. For more Details visit HERE.
Spirit Animal? Unicorns – magic only for those who believe!
Best Advice you’ve been given? If you can’t stop thinking about something, you should definitely do it. Life is too short to wait. If you fail, life is long to start again.
What would you tell yourself at 20? Remember that the universe is working in total perfection and your heart will always lead you on the right path if you just listen. And lastly, serve yourself only so you can serve others.
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