Cover Accessories holders from The Green Factory, founded by Malaysian Gen.T Leader of Tomorrow Harith Ridzuan (Photo: The Green Factory)
Accessories holders from The Green Factory, founded by Malaysian Gen.T Leader of Tomorrow Harith Ridzuan (Photo: The Green Factory)
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If you’re thinking of a gift for a loved one, here is a list of stylish and functional options that also uplift the community and protect our planet
The holiday season is a time of giving, reflection and connection with our loved ones. As we embrace the spirit of the holiday season, which lies in togetherness and generosity, we can consider gifting heartfelt presents that support essential causes making a difference in our world.
To spread kindness and joy far beyond our closet circle, we have curated a list of gifts that bring joy, uplift communities and protect the environment. From eco-friendly products to unique items crafted by artisans in underserved communities, each is sourced from companies run by our Gen.T Leaders of Tomorrow making waves across Asia.
Read more: Hazlina Abdul Halim, CEO of Make-A-Wish, on her work in social impact
3D woven apparel from Unspun
Unspun, a US-based textile lab and bespoke denim label co-founded by 2020 Gen.T honouree Walden Lam, is pioneering innovative solutions to create a decarbonised fashion industry. In addition to offering custom-fit jeans made possible through a proprietary body scanner, they have developed a 3D weaving technology called Vega. This technology can weave yarns directly into finished garments quickly and efficiently, drastically decreasing the resources and energy needed for clothing production.
Wooden home goods from The Green Factory
Based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, The Green Factory operates as a zero-waste facility, crafting over 60 sustainable timber products—including wall art, organisers and kitchenware—using eco-friendly materials and techniques. The venture evolved from a traditional family carpentry business of 2021 Gen.T honouree Harith Ridzuan, who was fuelled by a desire to make a positive impact on the world after the birth of his daughter.
Sustainable fashion wear from Story Wear
Established by 2023 Gen.T honouree Kuan Chen in Taiwan, Story Wear stands out as one of the few brands in the market offering a complete range of clothing made entirely from recycled fabrics. With a one-size-fits-all approach, it reduces waste from overstock while maintaining a gender-neutral aesthetic.
The company employs local tailors, women re-entering the workforce and individuals with family members with cerebral palsy to make the products by hand. Each product features a label signed by the artisan and the hours spent producing it.
Painting and art prints from The Hong Kong Arts Collective
The Hong Kong Arts Collective is a platform that nurtures and promotes local talent in the arts. Co-founded in 2019 by a group of artists, including photographer and 2024 Gen.T honouree Kyra Campbell, the collective represents over 100 gifted individuals. It offers them vital exposure, along with consultation and exhibition opportunities. Its curated collection features diverse artworks covering themes from abstract concepts to wildlife and architecture, perfect for adding a unique touch to any home.
Read more: This Singapore fashion startup is fighting fashion waste on multiple fronts
Specialty coffee from Foreword Coffee Roasters
Looking for the perfect gift for a coffee lover? Consider specialty coffee from Foreword Coffee Roasters, a Singapore-based B Corp social enterprise co-founded by 2023 Gen.T honouree Lim Wei Jie. The enterprise provides employment opportunities for individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, deafness and mental health challenges. Its specialty-grade Arabica coffee beans are ethically sourced from Asian farms and roasted in small batches every week.
Sustainable luxury resort wear from Fern Batik
At Fern Batik, luxury fashion and sustainability go hand in hand. Founded by 2024 honouree Fern Chua, the Malaysian brand revitalises the traditional art of batik by transforming it into stylish resort wear. Their collections champion local artisans, with products available in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.
Read more: Malaysian social enterprise Pinkcollar is driving ethical recruitment for migrant workers forward
Plantable toothbrush from Bambuhay
Crafted from bamboo, Bambuhay’s toothbrushes decompose within three months and contain a seed from a native tree. After use, you can plant them along with the bristles and packaging, which act as natural fertilisers. Bambuhay also offers other bamboo products, including coffee pressers and mugs.
The social enterprise was founded by 2024 Gen.T honouree Mark Sultan Gersava, who grew up in extreme poverty as the son of a farmer displaced by conflict on his home island of Mindanao in the Philippines. His mission is to assist impoverished farmers by employing them while positively impacting the environment.
Now, meet more Gen.T Leaders of Tomorrow making a positive impact across Asia.
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Based in Hong Kong, editor Yoyo Chow covers the people and ideas redefining Asia’s future—from cutting-edge innovation and AI to bold moves in sustainability and diversity. She also drives content for Tatler Gen.T in Hong Kong, a platform and community spotlighting the region’s next generation of startup founders, creatives and changemakers.
Before that, she was a video journalist producing content for international TV and digital platforms, including Reuters and South China Morning Post. If you have a powerful story to share, she’s all ears. Send press materials, event invites and any inquiries to yoyo.chow@tatlerasia.com.
