Since 2008, Rags2Riches president and CEO Reese Fernandez-Ruiz has steered her brand through calamities, economic upheavals and fickle consumer trends. The brand’s growth during the pandemic is a testament to Fernandez-Ruiz’s expert stewardship with the social entrepreneur launching a new clothing line along with a series of home and accents and accessories.

In 2021, the enterprise began a tie-up with IKEA, becoming the furniture giant’s official sewing and upcycling partner in the Philippines, servicing the largest store in the international chain. Other expansion plans are in the pipeline, including tapping more global territories. “We will also develop innovative use of upcycled materials,” Fernandez-Ruiz adds. “Our goal is to be a lifestyle brand that makes multi-way everyday pieces that weave joyful stories.”

Running a social enterprise is no easy task, but Fernandez-Ruiz finds fulfilment in providing livelihood to marginalized communities. She currently works with the country’s traditional weavers, which include women in northern Luzon (Kalinga, Ifugao, Abra and Ilocos), the Mangyan of Mindoro, and the T’boli weavers of South Cotabato. Fernandez-Ruiz also developed the brand’s signature weave which is farmed out to communities around Metro Manila. In addition, there is an ongoing collaboration with Balai Kamay, a social enterprise that works with Tondo’s carvers.

“Inclusive entrepreneurship that aims to do social good aside from making money could be very inspiring and rewarding, but also extremely challenging,” Fernandez-Ruiz admits. “The facade may look romantic, but behind the scenes, it takes a lot of hard work, dedication, grit, discipline, and enduring hope against all odds.”