Empowering Change and Overcoming Obstacles: The Inspiring Story of Soun and "Made New"
Made New combines the ancient craftsmanship and wisdom of Laos with modern tech and design to transform single use waste (i.e. plastic bags) into high value household products (i.e. fabric goods). This model relies on the strength of Lao people and brings their skill to the global market. Through this work, they are increasing economic opportunity, providing safe and dignifying work; while also, educating employees, stakeholders, and communities they partner with about sustainable living and waste management. They aim to educate about the personal harm of burning plastic and the damage to the environment along with how to replace these patterns with sustainable alternative paths to transform plastic to value.
In the heart of Laos, a small social venture named "Made New" is already seeing impact. Founded with the mission of transforming plastic waste into practical and eco-friendly household fabric goods, this innovative initiative is not only contributing to the reduction of plastic pollution but also changing lives within the local community. One remarkable individual, Soun, stands out as an embodiment of resilience and determination, playing a vital role in the venture's success.
Soun's story is one of triumph over adversity. Despite not being an official member of the Made New team, he has become an invaluable asset due to his remarkable skills as a sewer. What sets Soun apart is not only his remarkable talent but also the fact that he navigates life with just one functional leg. Despite this obstacle, he has refused to be defined by his disability, consistently proving that the human spirit can conquer any challenge.
Soun's journey has been one of continuous perseverance. He has tirelessly honed his sewing skills, evolving from a novice to a masterful artisan. Day after day, he dedicates himself to his sewing machine, crafting impeccable designs with unwavering focus. His intuition and creativity have become indispensable to the Made New team, allowing them to create and optimize their range of upcycled products, such as tote bags and pouches.
But Soun's story is more than just skill and determination – it's a tale of community and collaboration. The partnership between Soun and Made New is a testament to the power of support networks. While the team consults with Soun on designs and provides him with sewing jobs, his role has transcended mere collaboration. He has become an inspiration to all those who cross his path, showcasing that limitations can be shattered with the right mindset.
Recently, Soun surprised the Made New team by volunteering to personally deliver the latest batch of their upcycled products. Typically, these deliveries are made by car due to the challenging traffic conditions in Vientiane. However, Soun was determined to prove that he could handle the task even on a motorbike, defying the odds once again. His commitment to his work and the venture's mission was palpable.
Because of all the work Made New was able to give him, Soun could purchase a sidecar attached to his motorbike, transforming it into a more stable and capable mode of transportation. This modification not only improved the efficiency of his deliveries but also symbolized his unstoppable spirit. "It's much more stable and smooth to ride now. I don't worry about falling anymore," Soun shared with a smile. This small adjustment has significantly expanded Soun's possibilities, allowing him to take on larger orders and cater to a broader clientele.
Soun's determination and the success of his collaboration with Made New highlight the potential for positive change when a community rallies around a shared goal. His story reminds us that empowerment comes in many forms, and that sometimes the most transformative journeys are the ones that defy expectations. The collaboration between Soun and Made New serves as a poignant example of what can be achieved when skills, passion, and opportunities converge.
As Made New continues to create high-quality upcycled products that resonate with environmentally-conscious consumers, Soun's role becomes even more pivotal. He is more than just a skilled sewer; he is a beacon of hope for anyone facing challenges that seem insurmountable. His story underscores the importance of recognizing the inherent value and potential within every individual, regardless of their circumstances.
In a world where plastic pollution and environmental degradation are pressing concerns, initiatives like Made New stand as beacons of sustainable change. Through their innovative approach to upcycling plastic waste, they are not only contributing to a cleaner environment but also fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience within their community. And in the center of this remarkable journey stands Soun, a living testament to the fact that with determination, creativity, and collaboration, we can transcend obstacles and create a future that's both brighter and more inclusive.
So here's to Soun, to Made New, and to every individual who refuses to be defined by limitations. Their stories remind us that the human spirit is capable of rewriting the narrative, one stitch – or one pedal – at a time.
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Learn more about ‘Made New’ and donate to their cause here.