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How a Shoe Company Restored my Faith in Capitalism
As a liberal-minded English major at Colby College, I took several classes that encouraged me to question the effectiveness of international trade and its impact on the world. It wasn’t until my senior year, however, that a class called Environmental Justice pushed me beyond my comfort zone and brought these issues to life. Studying this social movement, which advocates for the equitable distribution of environmental burdens and benefits in society, urged me to confront the reality of how our products are produced.
From Consultant to Entrepreneur
For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated with international business and travel. After graduating from college, I chose to live abroad to pursue my dream; analyzing businesses in frontier markets in East Africa, Asia, and now Latin America. I love the unique challenges that force socially-minded companies in these regions to innovate continuously in order to create impact.
A Deeper Connection
I have been asked many times what Adelante has to do with international relations, a discipline more associated with the foreign service than the shoe business. For me the two undertakings are deeply intertwined.
Quality and Social Impact Are Not Exclusive
Marketing is difficult, especially when you aren’t a marketer by trade; lucky for me the Adelante story is naturally compelling. It is a story of connection and respect that echoes of broad sweeping change with the potential to uproot entrenched and exploitative production processes. So yeah, compelling.
The Big Idea
Am I passionate about shoes? That’s a tricky question.
Certainly I have developed a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship with which Adelante shoes are made. And I love to turn a finished product over in my hands, admiring the details that make each pair unique.
How I Learned to Love the Social Impact Model
I am a realist, someone who always questions hidden motives and assumes the worst possible outcome. This outlook is not uncommon among my generation, we are more cynical than our parents’ generation and our worldview is skewed by this mindset. So when I heard about Adelante Shoes and its new social impact model, I was hesitant to buy-in.
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