Gabriella Smith
Gabriella Smith @gabriellasmith, is a conscious entrepreneur and the founder of Upcycle Project (@theupcycleproject). Whose mission is to revolutionize the fashion industry by creating innovative circular solutions, inspiring discussions, and student mentorship programs. With a focus on sustainable sourcing and ethical production. Gabriella Smith believes that textile innovation is the key to the future of fashion.
IRK: Gabriella Smith tell us your “Why”
Gabriella: My “Why” is rooted in my passion for creating a better future for our planet. And inspiring others to do the same. The fashion industry’s negative impact on the environment and its communities is a problem that can no longer be ignored. Which is why I founded Upcycle Project. I am driven by the belief that we can create innovative, circular solutions that reduce waste and promote sustainability.
Every day, I am inspired by the people I work with and the communities we serve. Seeing the positive impact of our programs and initiatives keeps me going, even when faced with challenges. My spirit is fueled by the belief that we all have the power to make a difference. With Upcycle Project, I am committed to catalyzing change. Empowering others to join me on this journey towards a better future.
IRK: Gabriella what are you most passionate about with respect to taking care of people and the planet?
Gabriella: I am tired of the throw-away culture that dominates our society. Leaving us with overflowing landfills and dwindling natural resources. I am passionate about creating a more sustainable future for both people and the planet. Our mission is to transform textile waste into valuable raw materials using creativity, circularity, technology, and innovation principles. By doing so, we are reducing landfill waste and conserving resources, paving the way for a more resourceful world.
What drives my passion for sustainability is the belief that we are responsible for being stewards of the environment. Ensuring that future generations have a healthy planet to live on. I am committed to promoting sustainable practices and reducing our environmental impact in every way possible.
IRK: What are some conscious actions you implement in your daily life?
Gabriella: Conscious actions are vital to creating a more sustainable future. In my personal life, I strive to implement conscious actions that align with my values and promote positive change. One of my most significant conscious actions is breaking up with fast fashion. Fast fashion is a significant contributor to the environmental crisis. By choosing to build an ethical closet, I am reducing waste and promoting sustainable fashion habits. By investing in timeless pieces made from sustainable materials, I am not only reducing my carbon footprint. I’m also supporting a more ethical and responsible fashion industry. In addition to my conscious fashion choices, I also prioritize sustainable living habits. I drive an electric vehicle to reduce my carbon footprint. Make a conscious effort to use reusable water bottles and shopping bags to reduce plastic waste. These small actions may seem insignificant, but they add up to significantly impact the environment.
I am dedicated to promoting circularity in the fashion industry through Upcycle Project. By finding creative circular solutions for fashion waste. We are reducing our impact on the environment and promoting a more sustainable industry for future generations. Ultimately, conscious actions are essential for creating a better future for our planet and its communities. By making small, conscious choices in our daily lives, we can collectively significantly impact the world around us.
IRK: Gabriella what’s your hope for the future of the planet?
Gabriella: My hope for the future of the planet is a world where sustainability is at the forefront of our daily lives. Plus we live in harmony with our planet. It’s crucial that we all take responsibility for our actions. Working towards a future that’s regenerative and equitable for all.
Ultimately, my goal is to create a world where the health of our planet and its communities is valued above profit and convenience. It’s a collective effort and we believe that by working together, we can make a significant impact and create a better future for generations to come.
What Sustainable Development Goal do you, align with the most? https://sdgs.un.org/goals
Gabriella: As a sustainable fashion advocate, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is crucial in creating a more sustainable future for both people and the planet. Through our work at Upcycle Project, we are committed to doing our part in contributing to these goals. Creating a better world for future generations. We are strongly aligned with Sustainable Development Goals 9 and 12. SDG 9 aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. We aim to apply creativity, circularity, technology, and innovation principles to reduce landfill waste and conserve resources.
We are also aligned with SDG 12, which focuses on ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. I am committed to promoting sustainable fashion practices and reducing textile waste. By building an ethical closet, investing in high-quality, durable and timeless pieces, reducing the need to purchase new clothing constantly. These practices not only help conserve resources but also reduce the environmental’s negative impact.
