Spotlight on Sourcing's Posts - Ethical Fashion SOURCE Network2024-03-28T10:02:27ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcinghttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1960811419?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=1a6fnb26zofac&xn_auth=noGreenmystyle.com appoints new Editortag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-09-15:2622461:BlogPost:249572009-09-15T12:14:14.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
The UK's leading daily eco glossy magazine Greenmystyle.com has appointed Jen Marsden to the position of Editor. The appointment comes as the website celebrates its first birthday and parent company Delightful Media announces the launch of a new contract publishing division.<br />
<br />
Jen Marsden is a highly respected author, journalist and expert on ethical living and is the chair of the Soil Association's Health Products Standards Committee. She has written three books and contributed to countless…
The UK's leading daily eco glossy magazine Greenmystyle.com has appointed Jen Marsden to the position of Editor. The appointment comes as the website celebrates its first birthday and parent company Delightful Media announces the launch of a new contract publishing division.<br />
<br />
Jen Marsden is a highly respected author, journalist and expert on ethical living and is the chair of the Soil Association's Health Products Standards Committee. She has written three books and contributed to countless publications. She was a key team member at New Consumer and is a regular media spokesperson on ethical living.<br />
<br />
<b>Sarah Woodhead, Managing Director & Editor-in-chief of Delightful Media, says:</b><br />
<br />
"It's a real privilege to have an editor of Jen Marsden's calibre at the helm of Greenmystyle.com. Jen has integrity, fantastic experience, excellent contacts and a compelling vision for Greenmystyle.com. We work with high calibre clients, from Green People to Starbucks, and Jen clearly offered the quality of expertise that these clients demand. She further strengthens the media powerhouse at the top of Delightful Media and we can't wait to start working with her."<br />
<br />
<b>Jen Marsden says:</b><br />
<br />
"Delightful Media is first and foremost a stylish and savvy media business, yet run with integrity at its heart. With Sarah’s award-winning editorial experience and publishing expertise, plus nomination onto Leon Bailey Green’s Online Fashion 100 influencers and The Next Women's Top Ten Eco Internet Heroes lists, this is a truly exciting partnership.<br />
<br />
I admire the chic, optimistic and glossy approach that sets Greenmystyle.com apart from other “green” lifestyle sites as truly the “green Grazia”. In its first year of business it has achieved considerable brand success and audience growth. This is clearly being noticed. This season, Starbucks – now the world's biggest purchaser of Fairtrade certified coffee – is sponsoring Greenmystyle.com’s exclusive eco reportage from London Fashion Week.<br />
<br />
I will be continuing Delightful Media's spirit of collaboration and welcome all socially positive businesses, potential contributors and relevant PRs to get in touch with us."<br />
<br />
<b><u>Editor's Notes:</u></b><br />
Delightful Media is an independent media company with a mission to support businesses that make positive social and environmental contributions. It publishes glossy websites including Greenmystyle.com and QueensOfVintage.com, provides contract publishing and media consultancy.<br />
<br />
<b><u>For more information:</u></b><br />
Contact: Sarah Woodhead at sarah@greenmystyle.com or 07739187543.Seminar and Marketplace: SPOTLIGHT ON AFRICAtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-08-17:2622461:BlogPost:214232009-08-17T15:34:55.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="611" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357784?profile=original" width="515"></img></p>
<br />
LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR TOMORROWS EVENT: <b>SPOTLIGHT ON AFRICA</b><br />
<br />
Expert Panel Includes:<br />
<b>Colin McDowell, The Chair</b><br />
<b>Cristina Cisilion</b>, Founder of MADE<br />
<b>Rohit Kuthiala</b>, Senior Consultant- Supply chain at Accenture<br />
<b>Jo Maiden</b>, Founder of SOKO<br />
<b>Claire Hamer</b>, former buyer at Topshop, supply chain consultant<br />
<b>Eric Manu</b>, Founder of Clothes Show Live, Ghana…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357784?profile=original" alt="" width="515" height="611"/></p>
<br />
LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR TOMORROWS EVENT: <b>SPOTLIGHT ON AFRICA</b><br />
<br />
Expert Panel Includes:<br />
<b>Colin McDowell, The Chair</b><br />
<b>Cristina Cisilion</b>, Founder of MADE<br />
<b>Rohit Kuthiala</b>, Senior Consultant- Supply chain at Accenture<br />
<b>Jo Maiden</b>, Founder of SOKO<br />
<b>Claire Hamer</b>, former buyer at Topshop, supply chain consultant<br />
<b>Eric Manu</b>, Founder of Clothes Show Live, Ghana<br />
<br />
<a href="http://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/events/seminar-marketplace" target="_blank">Find Out More</a> or <a href="http://spotlightonsourcingregister.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank">Register Now</a>THIS MONTH'S THEME: AFRICAtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-07-29:2622461:BlogPost:196482009-07-29T11:30:00.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="600" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357870?profile=original" width="652"></img></p>
<br />
Are you doing something interesting in AFRICA? We want to hear about it- promote yourself on the network by posting your inspirational story on the blog. Make sure you are a member of the Africa Group!<br />
<br />
<b>INSPIRATIONAL STORY: THE YAKAAR NIANI WULLI FEDERATION</b><br />
<br />
<br />
There are many textile companies providing needed support to villages and communities across Africa.<br />
<br />
A great example of how villages are being supported through textiles is Liz Cooper's…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357870?profile=original" alt="" width="652" height="600"/></p>
<br />
Are you doing something interesting in AFRICA? We want to hear about it- promote yourself on the network by posting your inspirational story on the blog. Make sure you are a member of the Africa Group!<br />
<br />
<b>INSPIRATIONAL STORY: THE YAKAAR NIANI WULLI FEDERATION</b><br />
<br />
<br />
There are many textile companies providing needed support to villages and communities across Africa.<br />
<br />
A great example of how villages are being supported through textiles is Liz Cooper's work at Yakaar Niani Wulli Federation. Yakaar Niani Wulli have brought together more than 80 villages and almost 2000 farmers.<br />
<br />
Yakaar Niani Wulli’s aim is to help villages in Senegal, West Africa establish food security and ensure various sources of income for families. To achieve this aim Yakaar Niani Wulli has had to diversify their activities; textiles is just one of them.<br />
<br />
TEXTILES AND YAKAAR NIANI WULLI:<br />
<a href="href=" target="_blank">Liz Cooper</a> is helping villagers to develop a collection of textile products. Products are made from organic cotton and dyed with natural indigo.<br />
<br />
Textiles products create many jobs for villagers:<br />
The cotton must be farmed and harvested, then spun and woven into cloth. Yakaar Niani Wulli obtained certification from the fair trade foundation in 2006 for its production of organic cotton.<br />
<br />
Yakaar Niani Wulli reintroduced the cultivation of indigo to villagers. Once a garment is produced and the indigo is harvested and prepared, a woman can spend up to one day, creating different patterns of colour.<br />
<br />
For more about Yakaar Niani Wulli's work <a href="http://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/main/search/search?q=Liz+Cooper" target="_blank">view their site</a> . Look out for the online store coming soon!EFF Are Excited to Announce that...tag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-07-20:2622461:BlogPost:189212009-07-20T15:30:00.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
EFF are excited to announce that Jungle Drum Magazine and Moluche will be joining our list of exhibitors at tomorrow’s evening event!<br />
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="113" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976358329?profile=original" width="78"></img></p>
Jungle Drum specialises in Brazilian culture in the UK. Their main objective is to represent Brazil on its many levels without resorting to the usual clichés, and emphasises on aspects that are usually not addressed by the general media.<br />
<br />
I hope you will all agree it will be great to have a company exhibiting who…
EFF are excited to announce that Jungle Drum Magazine and Moluche will be joining our list of exhibitors at tomorrow’s evening event!<br />
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976358329?profile=original" alt="" width="78" height="113"/></p>
Jungle Drum specialises in Brazilian culture in the UK. Their main objective is to represent Brazil on its many levels without resorting to the usual clichés, and emphasises on aspects that are usually not addressed by the general media.<br />
<br />
I hope you will all agree it will be great to have a company exhibiting who specialises in the culture Brazil has, and knows the opportunities this culture can create for UK fashion brands.<br />
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976360110?profile=original" alt="" width="800" height="77"/></p>
Moluche’s textiles are crafted entirely by hand in Chile and Peru using natural organic products. Working closely with the Aymara and Quechua artisans, and remain true to the ideals and techniques used by these artisans in their traditional work and help sustain their art form.<br />
<br />
The EFF team look forward to meeting founder Jacqueline Vitali tomorrow night and we hope you are too!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://spotlightonsourcingregister.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank">Register For This Event Now!</a><br />
RichMix, London E1 6LA, 6:30pm-8:30pmEthical Fashion Forum- RECRUITING NEW BOARD MEMBERStag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-07-08:2622461:BlogPost:172672009-07-08T09:45:13.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="321" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357700?profile=original" width="509"></img></p>
<br />
<b><u>Blue Sky Thinking</u></b><br />
<br />
The Ethical Fashion Forum is currently looking to recruit 3-4 new Board Members* to help take the organisation into its next stage of development.<br />
<br />
The ETHICAL FASHION FORUM (EFF) is a not for profit network focusing upon social and environmental sustainability in the fashion industry. Through its work the EFF has increased industry collaboration towards sustainability, supported and promoted best practice, raised…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357700?profile=original" alt="" width="509" height="321"/></p>
<br />
<b><u>Blue Sky Thinking</u></b><br />
<br />
The Ethical Fashion Forum is currently looking to recruit 3-4 new Board Members* to help take the organisation into its next stage of development.<br />
<br />
The ETHICAL FASHION FORUM (EFF) is a not for profit network focusing upon social and environmental sustainability in the fashion industry. Through its work the EFF has increased industry collaboration towards sustainability, supported and promoted best practice, raised awareness, provided information, resources and tools towards sustainability, improved the social and environmental practices of fashion businesses, and increased market access and opportunities for suppliers and producer groups working to fair trade and sustainability standards.<br />
<br />
At this time we are particularly looking for Board Members with experience of:<br />
- Finance and fundraising<br />
- The fashion industry – probably gained through working in a senior position for a medium to large fashion retailer or supplier<br />
- Law<br />
- Organisational development and management / administration<br />
<br />
As the EFF is currently going through the process of charity registration, we would be particularly grateful for Board Members who have previous experience of being a charity trustee.<br />
<br />
In addition, at this crucial stage in EFF’s development, Board Members should be able to commit to supporting the EFF’s Director and Project Staff in a hands-on manner including by:<br />
<br />
- Active support for fundraising and financing, including leveraging personal and professional networks where appropriate<br />
- Providing support, guidance and mentoring to Project Staff and interns on one or more specific EFF projects<br />
<br />
Board Meetings are held four times a year.<br />
<br />
We are also looking for a new chair of the Ethical Fashion Forum board.<br />
<br />
Duties of Board Members (with particular reference to duties once EFF becomes a charity)<br />
<br />
1. To ensure that EFF complies with its memorandum and articles of association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.<br />
2. To ensure that EFF pursues its charitable objectives as laid down in the memorandum and articles.<br />
3. To ensure that EFF applies its resources exclusively in furtherance of its objectives.<br />
4. To contribute actively to EFF by giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.<br />
5. To safeguard the good name and values of EFF.<br />
6. To ensure the effective administration of EFF.<br />
7. To protect and manage the property of EFF and ensure the proper investment of charity funds.<br />
8. To appoint and support the Manager and monitor their performance.<br />
<br />
* The EFF is currently going through the process of charity registration. Once this is completed Board Members will be expected to become Trustees.<br />
<br />
For more information on EFF and/or the role of Board Member / Charity Trustee or to apply please contact Amisha Ghadali on <b>07973 152 659</b> or <b>amisha@ethicalfashionforum.com</b>NEW MONTHLY THEME...LATIN AMERICA!tag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-07-07:2622461:BlogPost:171842009-07-07T17:00:26.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="359" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357436?profile=original" width="385"></img></p>
<br />
<b>Ethical Fashion Forum’s new monthly theme… LATIN AMERICA</b><br />
<br />
Are you doing something interesting in Latin America?<br />
<br />
YES! Then please engage with us and share your interesting stories so we can <b>Feature You On Our Network Home Page!</b><br />
<br />
Join the <b>Latin America Group</b> and <b>Post Your Story</b> on the Forum....then look out for it on the home page.<br />
<br />
<br />
Want to learn more about Latin America?…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357436?profile=original" alt="" width="385" height="359"/></p>
<br />
<b>Ethical Fashion Forum’s new monthly theme… LATIN AMERICA</b><br />
<br />
Are you doing something interesting in Latin America?<br />
<br />
YES! Then please engage with us and share your interesting stories so we can <b>Feature You On Our Network Home Page!</b><br />
<br />
Join the <b>Latin America Group</b> and <b>Post Your Story</b> on the Forum....then look out for it on the home page.<br />
<br />
<br />
Want to learn more about Latin America? <a href="http://spotlightonsourcingregister.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank">Join us</a> at the next Spotlight on Sourcing event!<br />
<a href="http://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/events/spotlight-on-brazil-latin" target="_blank">Find out more about this event</a>BECOME AND EFF BUSINESS MEMBER, FIRST CONSULTATIONS ON 14TH JULYtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-06-24:2622461:BlogPost:158632009-06-24T17:37:35.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="333" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357757?profile=original" width="240"></img></p>
In response to high demand, EFF are re-launching Business Membership.<br />
<br />
<b>ABOUT BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP</b><br />
<br />
Any business or organisation working in the fashion and textiles sector (including clothing, shoes, accessories, textiles and jewellery), can apply to become an EFF business member from £200 per year dependent on turnover.<br />
<br />
Benefits of Business Membership:<br />
<br />
· Annual consultation<br />
· Ethical policy document and official member status<br />
· Use of EFF logo…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357757?profile=original" alt="" width="240" height="333"/></p>
In response to high demand, EFF are re-launching Business Membership.<br />
<br />
<b>ABOUT BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP</b><br />
<br />
Any business or organisation working in the fashion and textiles sector (including clothing, shoes, accessories, textiles and jewellery), can apply to become an EFF business member from £200 per year dependent on turnover.<br />
<br />
Benefits of Business Membership:<br />
<br />
· Annual consultation<br />
· Ethical policy document and official member status<br />
· Use of EFF logo on website and ethical policy documents (not on products)<br />
· Profile on the EFF Business Members Directory<br />
· Communication of practices to buyers and customers through directory and EFF network<br />
· Opportunity for promotion through EFF newsletters<br />
· Access to 'business members only' network<br />
· Access to all The Source benefits<br />
<br />
<b>HOW TO APPLY FOR BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP</b><br />
<br />
<b>1.</b> Before applying please <a href="http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/become-a-member/mandate-for-business-members">check the EFF Mandate</a> to ensure your business or organisation meets the minimum standards we require of business members.<br />
<br />
<b>2.</b> <a href="http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/assets-uploaded/documents/Business_Application_form_Jan_09.doc">Receive an application form</a><br />
<br />
<b>3</b>. Once the application form has been filled, please return it with a registration fee of £25.<br />
<br />
Forms can be returned by post or email:<br />
<br />
BY POST<br />
RichMix, Unit C02, 35-47 Bethnal Green Rd, London E16LA<br />
<br />
BY EMAIL<br />
dani@ethicalfashionforum.com<br />
<br />
The Registration fee can be paid <a href="http://businessmemberregistration.eventbrite.com/">online</a> or by cheque made out to the Ethical Fashion Forum and sent to the above address<br />
<br />
<b>CONSULTATION DAYS</b><br />
<br />
The first consultation will be held 14th July 2009, sessions are limited and filled on a first come first serve basis. For applicants who cannot be seen on the 14th a session will be reserved on the next consultation day in August<br />
<br />
Please <a href="http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/become-a-member">click here</a> if you would like further information on business membership.Ethical Fashion Forum: Business Membershiptag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-06-15:2622461:BlogPost:145062009-06-15T16:00:00.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
<b>EFF BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP</b>: <a href="http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/become-a-member/apply-for-business-membership">APPLY NOW</a><br />
FIRST CONSULTATION ON <b>14TH JULY</b> 2009.<br />
<br />
Any business or organisation working in the fashion and textiles sector (including clothing, shoes, accessories, textiles and jewellery), can apply to become an EFF business member.<br />
<br />
The first consultation will be held 14th July 2009, places are limited and on a first come first serve basis. Applicants that meet…
<b>EFF BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP</b>: <a href="http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/become-a-member/apply-for-business-membership">APPLY NOW</a><br />
FIRST CONSULTATION ON <b>14TH JULY</b> 2009.<br />
<br />
Any business or organisation working in the fashion and textiles sector (including clothing, shoes, accessories, textiles and jewellery), can apply to become an EFF business member.<br />
<br />
The first consultation will be held 14th July 2009, places are limited and on a first come first serve basis. Applicants that meet the criteria of <a href="http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/become-a-member/mandate-for-business-members">The Mandate</a> but unavailable for a consultation on 14th July, will be reserved for upcoming consultation days (next consultation event - August).<br />
<br />
<b>Benefits of Business Membership Include:</b><br />
· Annual consultation to develop and maintain a progressive ethical business<br />
· EFF Ethical policy document and official status of your company as an EFF member<br />
· Use of EFF logo on website and ethical policy documents (not on products)<br />
· Listing and profile on the EFF Business Members Directory online<br />
· Communication of members ethical practices to buyers and customers through members directory and EFF network<br />
· Opportunity for promotion through EFF newsletters to our network of thousands, including buyers, industry and press, and consumer member network.<br />
· Access to business members only part of the EFF network site<br />
· Access to all Fashion Insider benefits<br />
<br />
<b>Need More Information?</b><br />
Please <a href="http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/become-a-member/business-membership">Click for Further Information</a> on becoming an EFF Business MemberPOSITION AT MADE-BY UKtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-06-01:2622461:BlogPost:124912009-06-01T08:40:28.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
COMPANY<br />
<br />
MADE-BY provides a practical approach to improving social and environmental conditions within a brand’s supply chain. We work together on a realistic step by step strategy of improvement which is then communicated to the public via annually published scorecards and a variety of communication tools.<br />
<br />
<br />
Please check www.MADE-BY.org for more information.<br />
<br />
<br />
Keep up-to-date with MADE-BY events and discussions by joining the new MADE-BY fan page on facebook.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Job Title: Full-time Office…
COMPANY<br />
<br />
MADE-BY provides a practical approach to improving social and environmental conditions within a brand’s supply chain. We work together on a realistic step by step strategy of improvement which is then communicated to the public via annually published scorecards and a variety of communication tools.<br />
<br />
<br />
Please check www.MADE-BY.org for more information.<br />
<br />
<br />
Keep up-to-date with MADE-BY events and discussions by joining the new MADE-BY fan page on facebook.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Job Title: Full-time Office Manager<br />
<br />
Reports to: General Manager UK<br />
<br />
Location: 28 Mortimer Street, London. W1W 7RD<br />
<br />
Prime purpose of this role: To provide full admin support for the UK MADE-BY office.<br />
<br />
Start Date: 1st July 2009<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
ROLE<br />
· Full responsibility for the day to day management of the office, including ordering of office supplies, office furniture, set up of subscriptions/publications.<br />
<br />
· To provide administrative support to the UK General Manager.<br />
<br />
· Ensure that all insurances are in place and kept up to date.<br />
<br />
· Maintain databases when required.<br />
<br />
· Full responsibilities for team travel arrangement.<br />
<br />
· Organisation of meetings and minute taking.<br />
<br />
· Maintain the electronic and paper filing systems.<br />
<br />
· Answering the phone and message taking for members of the team.<br />
<br />
· Finance duties including:<br />
<br />
- Processing and payment of all internal and external invoices, including team expenses.<br />
<br />
- Maintaining and updating finance spreadsheets when required.<br />
<br />
· HR administration including :<br />
<br />
- Keeping all records of annual leave and sickness updated<br />
<br />
- Co-ordination of set up for new starters/interns.<br />
<br />
- Maintain standard forms (in liaison with the UK General Manager & HR) for annual leave, sickness, health and safety and other policies.<br />
<br />
· To work with the team on MADE-BY promotional activities – Trade Shows, fashion/in-store events etc.<br />
<br />
· Some travel involved.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
May be required to work additional hours outside of normal office hours in order to ensure role responsibilities are met.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
PERSONAL QUALITIES<br />
<br />
This role is ideally suited to a highly skilled Office Manager with a professional attitude balanced with an outgoing and fun personality. The position will suit a team-player with experience in a similar position who is now looking for a new challenge in a young and vibrant organisation.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
· At least 5 years solid experience in secretarial/admin roles with relevant qualifications.<br />
<br />
· Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.<br />
<br />
· Must have strong attention to detail who is a born organiser and tidy.<br />
<br />
· Superb telephone manner and client liaison skills.<br />
<br />
· A methodical, flexible and thorough approach with the ability to multi-task and prioritise workload.<br />
<br />
· Must be able to work independently.<br />
<br />
· Understanding of sustainability a bonus but not essential.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Salary – competitive and dependent on experience<br />
<br />
<br />
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 5pm, FRIDAY 5TH JUNE 2009<br />
<br />
<br />
Please send all applications to infouk@made-by.orgEFF CORRESPONDENT IN INDIAtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-05-30:2622461:BlogPost:124172009-05-30T18:30:00.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="283" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357448?profile=original" width="400"></img></p>
Image: Samant Cauhan<br />
<br />
<br />
EFF CORRESPONDENT <a href="http://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/Sarah">SARAH MURPHY</a> WRITES:<br />
<br />
I met Samant Chauhan last Friday, on a hot afternoon in his South Delhi studio. Since 2004 he has been winning all sorts of awards and showcased at Esthetica, The Ethical Fashion Show Paris and Fashion Week in India and Singapore. We discussed a range of issues including his practice, certification, NGO’s, India and Fashion,…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357448?profile=original" alt="" width="400" height="283"/></p>
Image: Samant Cauhan<br />
<br />
<br />
EFF CORRESPONDENT <a href="http://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/Sarah">SARAH MURPHY</a> WRITES:<br />
<br />
I met Samant Chauhan last Friday, on a hot afternoon in his South Delhi studio. Since 2004 he has been winning all sorts of awards and showcased at Esthetica, The Ethical Fashion Show Paris and Fashion Week in India and Singapore. We discussed a range of issues including his practice, certification, NGO’s, India and Fashion, and The Media.<br />
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Bhagalpur, in the state of Bihar is synonymous for producing the finest quality silks, and this happens to be where Samant is from. Working with 5000 weavers in Bhagalpur, using Non Violent Silk, his main focus is developing skills and creative diversification. He encourages weavers to broaden their talents and contemporize traditional techniques, through the provision of workshops, the introduction of new materials such as linen, and encouraging entrepreneurship.<br />
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Three years ago Samant brought two block printers from Rajasthan, an area famous for its block printing, holding workshops in Bihar to educate weavers and craftsmen about the techniques of block printing. Now there are over 300 block printing facilities in homes and business around Bhagalpur. As the skills base diversifies, confidence improves, giving power to those who once did not have it. As a result, job security has improved and individuals have become empowered to offer their skills without the use of a middle man.<br />
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I asked Samant about dye, certification, transparency, waste, electricity use and the answers were surprisingly straight forward. Only the natural colours of the silk are used, cutting out the need for preparing the fibre for dying, and adhering to dye standards. Certification is not required as the colour, fibre and fabric texture can only be achieved by hand. There is nothing to prove. When it comes to waste, all the excess fabric is used in embroidery or used as patchwork to create a garment. Electricity use is also minimal, as the silk is woven on a handloom and the embroidery completed by hand.<br />
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I asked other designers including Samant, what they thought about NGO’s, and was surprised at how negative the response was. Due to the fact there is no hard line government monitoring in India, it seems some groups are using NGO status as a means to cream money from those who they are supposedly supporting. In response to my shock, I was told that around 80-90 percent are doing a good job promoting Indian Textiles and marketing their products, tying up with retailers and selling to multi brand stores.<br />
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I agree with Samant when he says the UK media puts a negative face on Indian garment workers. For instance, when the media has exposed stories in the past about Primark, rarely is there any follow up information about the situation, stating what the company has done to solve its problems (whether the garment workers have lost their jobs entirely and the contract has moved elsewhere or their working situation has been improved and regulated to a higher degree).<br />
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He suggests that representatives from the companies should base themselves onsite while their garment production is happening, putting them in control and unable to blame others for their problems. If the media was interested in researching or improving the effects of the fashion industry, maybe the companies would improve business by guaranteeing a sustainable plan for the future.<br />
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Yet, contrary to this, I also understand the ‘problem’ in some cases is normality. In conversation with one exporter, he suggested Indian workers were less concerned about air quality, working conditions, and long hours compared to their western counterparts. Even the students I taught didn’t mind the toxic fumes that filled their library and corridor from a nearby waste burner. One student commented ‘it’s not a problem for us, we are used to it’, even suggesting I shouldn’t be such a wimp.<br />
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India’s media are unsupportive of the fashion industry; at present its just high society ‘fun’, with a few highly respected designers and not much consideration for the rest. Samant suggests a fashion media graduate or equivalent, with an eye for fashion should be reporting.<br />
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Sometimes I feel the developing world tends to cherry pick from the world’s problems and in some cases fails to see if it’s truly a problem in the developing society. There are methods of working that other nations would question, and here pass as every day life, and are deeply rooted because of the caste system.<br />
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There is hope! The government has placed signs all over the cities and in many rural areas also, saying ‘no honking, noise pollution’ and ‘plant trees, give life’ to state a few. Environmental awareness is increasing.<br />
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When I was guest teaching in April, I was telling the BA Fashion students about Organic Cotton and Ethical Fashion, they all hastily nodded and I knew then that it was very unclear. The students understand Ethical and ethnic to be the same thing! How will the industry improve its ethics if even the students, the leaders of tomorrow’s fashion industry in India fail to understand the importance of standards, life quality, and prospects? Also, much of the coverage for India Fashion Week by the media over here was incredibly unsupportive: how can one improve how this sector is looked upon if every person reads how ‘ugly’ and ‘stupid’ creativity is?<br />
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If only the image of creativity as a gift can be improved, then families and students alike will be more supportive and passionate about their ability to change and shape the future. And as the government begins to display public art on a larger scale, and encourage water harvesting and respect for one another’s homes, I hope in time the general consensus will change to respect this beautiful country.<br />
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Catch the next blog for a look at the women and men who produce up to 10million handmade shawls, mufflers and stowls a year for Bhuttico and a co-operative of weavers from Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.<br />
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<a href="http://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/forum/topics/ethical-fashion-forum-1">View blog 1</a>NOTES FROM THE SPOTLIGHT ON ASIA EVENT NOW AVAILABLEtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-05-22:2622461:BlogPost:114652009-05-22T12:53:22.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
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Thank you to everyone who attended the Spotlight on Asia event, 19th May. This was the first time we used the new speaker format and the feedback shows that it made the event more informative.<br />
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Speakers included:<br />
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Julia Hawkins from The Ethical Trading Initiative<br />
Abigail Petit, Gossypium<br />
Clare Lissaman, Ethical Supply chain consultant<br />
Sury Bagenal, Head of Design at Adili…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976358025?profile=original" alt="" width="432" height="327"/></p>
Thank you to everyone who attended the Spotlight on Asia event, 19th May. This was the first time we used the new speaker format and the feedback shows that it made the event more informative.<br />
<br />
Speakers included:<br />
<br />
Julia Hawkins from The Ethical Trading Initiative<br />
Abigail Petit, Gossypium<br />
Clare Lissaman, Ethical Supply chain consultant<br />
Sury Bagenal, Head of Design at Adili<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/group/sustainablefabricsandcomponents">Join the Spotlight on Sourcing group</a> to view the notes from the seminarEFF CORRESPONDENT IN INDIAtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-05-21:2622461:BlogPost:113862009-05-21T11:51:12.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="450" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357879?profile=original" width="304"></img></p>
Image of a busy street in Delhi<br />
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EFF CORRESPONDENT WRITES:<br />
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Namaste Ladies and Gentlemen. I am on a mission to share some information with you about the future of Ethical and Sustainable Fashion in India<br />
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I have been in India for 2 months now, based in an incredibly hot Uttar Pradesh, on a guest teaching position at The Institute of Fine Art. I have been teaching creative thinking, experimental design development, draping techniques and illustration…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357879?profile=original" alt="" width="304" height="450"/></p>
Image of a busy street in Delhi<br />
<br />
EFF CORRESPONDENT WRITES:<br />
<br />
Namaste Ladies and Gentlemen. I am on a mission to share some information with you about the future of Ethical and Sustainable Fashion in India<br />
<br />
I have been in India for 2 months now, based in an incredibly hot Uttar Pradesh, on a guest teaching position at The Institute of Fine Art. I have been teaching creative thinking, experimental design development, draping techniques and illustration to B.A Fashion students (an opening provided by University of the Arts London and The Institute of Fine Arts, Modinagar).<br />
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With the opportunity to teach, came the decision to stay longer and get answers regarding Ethical business and Sustainable practice in this part of the world. I want to find out what drives Indian creatives to get involved with sustainable, ethical design or in some cases disregard it altogether. Does their approach to sustainability and ethical issues differ from a western approach? Who is doing what and where? I intend to provide information that educates the reader and gives way to possibilities to create trade, whilst building on The India Network on the Ethical Fashion Forum’s Networking site.<br />
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The blog will contain interviews with contemporary fashion, product and graphic designers who have involved sustainability to varying degrees in there work. It will also include details of my trips to design, manufacturing and export houses to see what they look like from a layman’s perspective. As well as discovering information about fabric developments, I hope to highlight the pros and cons of bamboo, banana and pineapple fabrics. I will be visiting the finest silk weavers in Bihar, Himalayan yak wool weavers, and organic cotton growers and producers too.<br />
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During the weekends I’ve been coughing and choking my way in to Delhi, where there is a huge amount of construction work happening for the Common Wealth Games. With the help of new friend, Guarav Gupta (Textiles Designer and University of the Arts London ambassador in India), I managed to get into India Fashion Week, and have met high end Indian fashion, product and graphic designers, fabric manufacturers and factory owners who produce for major household brands in The UK and USA.<br />
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There are so many valued opinions and important contacts here at my finger tips, which I aim to update you with regularly. In the past I have blogged for Better Thinkings ‘Perfect T-Shirt’, researching and experimenting with natural dyes and sustainable/ bio degradable packaging, and also completed a variety of Fashion, Accessory, Photography and Fine Art internships at John Galliano, Lucy Orta, Paul Savile, and Gareth Pugh to name a few.<br />
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Some of these people have taken up projects involving sustainability and are upbeat about working sustainably in the future, but there are others who believe it’s all ‘bullshit’, (and those where not my own words!). To hear that Organic and Sustainability were seen as impossible and untrue by two designers was a little disheartening, but at present it is a trend here, and I think there is a lack of drive and initiative from some.<br />
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In the next blog I will be interviewing the passionate and pro active luxury Ethical Designer, Samant Chauhan, and drawing parallels between teaching methods, Indian culture and how Fashion is valued in this fast changing country.DESIGN BY ADILItag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-05-21:2622461:BlogPost:113832009-05-21T10:54:27.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
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This image shows a design by Sury Bagenal, Head of Design at Adili and one of the speakers at the Spotlight on Asia event Tuesday 19th May.<br />
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At the Spotlight on Asia event, Sury spoke of how Asia can inspire designers. Sury often uses India for manufacturing, where she finds traditional and high quality skills. Such skills can develop her designs, e.g. stitching, re-adaptation of traditional wear. This is not the only influence for her designs, in her…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976358244?profile=original" alt="" width="276" height="280"/></p>
This image shows a design by Sury Bagenal, Head of Design at Adili and one of the speakers at the Spotlight on Asia event Tuesday 19th May.<br />
<br />
At the Spotlight on Asia event, Sury spoke of how Asia can inspire designers. Sury often uses India for manufacturing, where she finds traditional and high quality skills. Such skills can develop her designs, e.g. stitching, re-adaptation of traditional wear. This is not the only influence for her designs, in her new collection she has uses appliqué flowers, knowing her design will provide more women with employment.<br />
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The image on the right is that of an Indian cotton picker. The images show how traditional Indian clothing has heavily influenced Sury’s jacket. Sury has also added to the jacket, traditional embroidery from India. Embroidery will provide more people with work as the embroidery is handmade.<br />
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Hopefully more designers will look at Asia in a new light and be inspired by their beautiful textiles and designs.SPOTLIGHT ON....HATTI TRADINGtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-05-13:2622461:BlogPost:103342009-05-13T16:24:43.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
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Hatti Trading is an ethical handbag company, their bags are handmade by survivors of human trafficking or disadvantaged women in Nepal.<br />
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Hatti production is based in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. When women are rescued from trafficking by The Esther Benjamins Trust, and after a time a rehabilitation they can be employed by Hatti under fair trade conditions. The women (min age 17) are offered the opportunity to work full time where Hatti provide…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976357815?profile=original" alt="" width="736" height="420"/></p>
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Hatti Trading is an ethical handbag company, their bags are handmade by survivors of human trafficking or disadvantaged women in Nepal.<br />
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Hatti production is based in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. When women are rescued from trafficking by The Esther Benjamins Trust, and after a time a rehabilitation they can be employed by Hatti under fair trade conditions. The women (min age 17) are offered the opportunity to work full time where Hatti provide secure accommodation with a house mother to care for them and receive training at the production centre. They are paid a good monthly wage, holiday, sickness, hospital fees and maternity pay, they also receive help to adjust to a new life.<br />
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When women initially return from a life of abuse, they find themselves outcast from their communities and branded ‘unclean’. However, while under Fair Trade employment, these women often find themselves the highest income earner in a family resulting in many of the girls being invited to live with relatives. The women are then empowered and no longer desperate for acceptance, they are valued and feel valued.<br />
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Hatti use natural materials and source locally wherever possible to reduce their carbon footprint.<br />
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<a href="http://www.hattitrading.co.uk/">Click here</a> to view Hatti Trading’s website.SPOTLIGHT ON....SAWANG BORANtag:ethicalfashionforum.ning.com,2009-05-13:2622461:BlogPost:102942009-05-13T11:45:26.000ZSpotlight on Sourcinghttps://ethicalfashionforum.ning.com/profile/SpotlightonSourcing
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‘Sawang Boran’ initiated when a group of weavers in 2007 asked Rosanne Trottier to find them a market. Since then Rosanne has worked to revitalise and honour a traditional way of life in Isan, an area in Northeast Thailand.<br />
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Isan’s traditional, complex textiles often do not qualify as ‘real work’, those who weave these traditional fabrics are often paid very little for their considerable amount of highly skilled work and individual talent. This has…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1976358399?profile=original" alt="" width="387" height="265"/></p>
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‘Sawang Boran’ initiated when a group of weavers in 2007 asked Rosanne Trottier to find them a market. Since then Rosanne has worked to revitalise and honour a traditional way of life in Isan, an area in Northeast Thailand.<br />
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Isan’s traditional, complex textiles often do not qualify as ‘real work’, those who weave these traditional fabrics are often paid very little for their considerable amount of highly skilled work and individual talent. This has led to many girls and women below 30 who have not leant to weave, risking the loss of the Isan’s remarkable tradition. Rosanne’s work, investing in the Isan’s old way of life, will hopefully keep their creative tradition alive.<br />
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Rosanne sees the Isan villagers as Sawang Boran’s best asset, who are rich in culture and whose traditional skills and creativity bring authenticity appeal to the textiles. Natural dyes are used in the textiles, creating many advantages. Not only are risks to villagers reduced through using chemical free dyes, villagers are also reintroduced to an old way of life when dye plants served as medicine, food, detergents and fuel.<br />
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Revitalising cultural pride and being environmentally friendly is not the only benefit from Rosanne’s work, she has also provided a sustainable, well above standard income for the Isan women.<br />
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<a href="http://weaving.sawangboran.com/">Click here</a> to view Sawang boran's site.<br />
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