Image courtesy of Sonya Kashmiri
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Today, we're going to meet Sonya Kashmiri, who has created her own eponymous line of fashion accessories. She used to work as a sneaker designer, traveling the world and staying on the cutting edge of street-style. While this sounds glamorous and fun Sonya willing gave up that jetsetting life to produce her own distinctive creations closer to home. How did Sonya Kashmiri become a Change Maker?My name is: Sonya Kashmiri
I live in: London
I work in: my own business, designing and producing accessories.
I used to work: as a fashion trainer designer.
The reason I changed my business is: I wanted a new challenge and to work in a different way; that is, to change my working methods, make my own patterns, use better, cleaner materials and travel less.
With my work I am aiming to: to change people's perception of products that are made with an environmental or ethical focus.
The most important eco aspect of my work is: to create a new understanding of eco-design-it's not just sandals and lentils.
I am excited by what I am doing now because: working for myself is the most rewarding job I have ever done.
The most challenging part of my work is: sourcing materials at achievable costs and quantities.
The most rewarding part of my work is: seeing the finished product accomplished and seeing people using them.
The results I really want to see are: more quality over quantity, for example buying products that will last, and reevaluating packaging.
I work with other businesses: and I am always surprised at how helpful people are in the industry.
I was first made aware of environmental issues: when I was growing up. Our house was always full of people of different ages who were putting the world to rights.
One thing I do everyday is: collate research, i.e. taking pictures for inspiration or drawing in my sketchbook.
One thing I do every week is: speak with suppliers and retailers.
I wish I could: trust politicians to tackle big issues such as war and genocide, but I think it will be left to all of us.
I think everyone can: make a difference in his or her own way, be it recycling or changing to a green-energy supplier.
Change Makers is series of interviews with people famous and obscure, who answer questions about how they are creating a more sustainable world through their work and personal lives. Meet more Change Makers here.
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