What is your personal advocacy?
Education. I support a foundation back home in the Philippines that shelters and teaches out-of-school girls who come from difficult homes, as well as other charities that advocate for equal access to quality education. It's one of the (many) reasons why I love the work we do at Relevé Fashion. We've given our customers a platform to contribute to fantastic non-profits like Big Change.
What was the turning point that first got you interested in it?
My father supports the same foundation that I do now and growing up, he would take me each year to visit the school. It made me realise how fortunate I was to have been given quality education and how many opportunities opened up for me because of it. It disheartens me that this isn't a basic right for everyone, so I try to do what I can with what I have. My parents supported my education, so it's only fair I pay their generosity forward to those who aren't as fortunate.
How do you live it out daily?
I think it's being conscious of just how fortunate I am. With my family and friends, and my husband - I try to show them as much love as possible because they make my life enormously better. My home and my closet (especially my closet) give me great joy, so I take care of the things in them. And I'm fortunate to have a job I really enjoy, so I work hard and do my best to stay dependable and consistent. And of course, shopping on Relevé Fashion and choosing a nonprofit to give back to during checkout.
Words to live by:
"A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination." -Nelson Mandela
What's your personal definition of sustainability?
Being aware that our actions take an immediate effect on our planet. Whether it be how we consume things, how we dispose of things, where to shop, or the policies we advocate for. We're borrowing this world from the next generation, we need to give them a chance at a better world and not burden them with fixing the repercussions of our actions.
What are your tips for individuals who want to start adopting a more sustainable/conscious lifestyle?
Just start! Even small things - turning off the lights when not in use, opting out of plastic utensils when you take-out, purchasing organic products, walking or biking to places, buying sustainable materials - can create a great impact if we all consciously do them together.