Cover Photo: Julian Abram Wainwright
Photo: Julian Abram Wainwright
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Social entrepreneur and designer Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, one of Tatler Asia’s Most Influential 2022 listers, gets candid on the altruistic work she has been doing and what more she strives for their artisans to achieve
Tatler Asia's Most Influential 2022 lister Reese Fernandez-Ruiz knew that running a social enterprise is no easy task. But the fulfilment she finds in this endeavour has always kept her driven to do more. Rags2Riches (R2R), the fashion and design house she co-founded with friends who share the same passion for uplifting the lives of common Filipinos, has grown into a reputable partner of renowned companies. Amidst challenges, R2R has remained steadfast in its mission and innovative with its products to keep up with the growing demands of its market.
Read also: Rags2Riches co-founder Reese Fernandez Ruiz on why we should make a difference in society
Above An artisan of Rags2Riches (Photo: Julian Abram Wainwright)
An artisan of Rags2Riches (Photo: Julian Abram Wainwright)
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What projects in the last two years are you most proud of? Why?
Reese Fernandez-Ruiz (RFR): Intentionality, Inc—the company of Rags2Riches! We were able to pull through and thrive even during the lockdowns. We launched our clothing and home lines. We have also become the official sewing and upcycling studio of the largest IKEA in the world, which is IKEA Philippines. I am very proud that we can grow our enterprise and, in effect, support more artisan livelihood.
What challenges do you see now in your respective industry? How do you intend to help address these challenges?
RFR: As an inclusive enterprise in the fashion industry, we are traversing industries of fashion and sustainable development. Both industries have major challenges.
As for fashion, the industry will have many supply chain concerns, especially as global issues emerge and we all feel the effects (inflation, war, etc.). We intend to address these by keeping our supply chain local, intentional, and data-driven. We make things in small batches and advocate for pre-orders so that we can plan better, generate less waste, and advocate for more intentional consumption.
On the side of sustainable development, the work is even more important because of the worsening effects of the climate emergency. We intend to be part of the solution by continuing our livelihood and training efforts for grassroots communities. Aside from our usual programs, we'll also be including programs that can mitigate the effects of climate emergency.
Above Reese Fernandez-Ruiz
Reese Fernandez-Ruiz
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What can you say to those who want to follow in your footsteps?
RFR: Start with the right intentions and an enduring ‘why’. Inclusive entrepreneurship that aims to do social good aside from making money could be very inspiring and rewarding, but also extremely challenging. 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.
Who do you look up to for guidance, inspiration or mentorship?
RFR: I have a very small group of friends who I talk to frequently about life decisions. My husband is also a constant source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration.
What are your plans for the coming years, and what keeps you going?
RFR: I always go back to our ‘why’ and the impact I hope my life could create. For the next few years, we’ll expand R2R to more global territories and innovate on more upcycled materials. Our goal is to be a lifestyle brand that makes multi-way everyday pieces that weave joyful stories.
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