EP#16: Banago shares lessons on empowering a community

[buzzsprout episode=’201720′ player=’true’]

You can also download this podcast on iTunes or Stitcher Radio.

Consumerism is changing. I can’t say this enough. Brands and consumers are becoming more conscious about the long term impacts they make.  Sustainability is on everyone’s mind.  It’s also become easier for brands to touch the lives of individuals in need through organizations like Kiva or Change.org. Caring is sexy.

In this podcast, Renee Patron, founder and creative director at Banago shares how her business shifted to more efficiently empower artisan communities in the Phillippines after the 2013 Typhoon. Banago was an established brand selling their products in high-end retails stores in the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, etc… But in November 2013, the Typhoon destroyed the homes of villagers and the entire production network of Banago. Renee had to rebuild from the ground up. Having experienced the catastrophic after effects of the Typhoon herself, she became driven to empower the Banago community.

[Tweet “Learn how @ilovebanago rebuilt from the ground up while empowering a community #podcast”]

Renee Patron shares how she was able to rebuild her brand and more. She also discusses how she was able to help the community by tapping into their traditional craft. You will learn how the Banago craft has been handed down from generation to generation and how Renee was able to translate the designs for a western audience.

In this podcast, you will learn:
– How to deal with set-backs and move forward
– How to positively help a community
– How to work with International vendors

Conclusion: Banago’s story is truly inspirational. If you want advice on empowering a community around you, listen to this podcast. Banago is currently raising funds to help them recover from last year’s damages. I encourage you check-out their Kickstarter – every donation comes with a Banago product. Help Banago make a come back after being knocked down by the biggest typhoon in history.