I was thinking about the Olympic Torch, and the idea of passing the ideals which it represents from hand to hand. It’s applicable to all of us who strive to do anything better, faster, quicker or more ethically and sustainably. We all have a duty to pass on that Torch.
I had a great opportunity to do some of this yesterday when I was visited by 15 Colorado University students and their tutors. They were on a study tour in England called Design and Merchandising – Ethical and Sustainable Fashion in England. I was thrilled and honoured that they had asked to visit me as part of this intensive fact-finding and learning experience.
We had a tour of the animals and then it was back inside (it was a freezing cold day!) to talk and talk. I was asked some amazingly good, thought-provoking and intelligent questions about the animals and our working methods. Clearly they had done their homework on me! I was so impressed with their knowledge and their obvious passion for the future of sustainable/ethical fashion. I’m sure that once they graduate and get out there in the world of marketing they will really make a difference.
They have a tough call. America is not as far ahead as Europe in awareness over textiles. Apparently most Americans don’t have a clue what their clothes are made from or where they come from. We are possibly a little further along the road here.
It was great to see you all! Keep in touch! You are the future. There’s no point me doing what I do if I can’t sell it and the story it tells. I hope yesterday I handed you a small flame to hold in your hands with care. Make sure it grows into your own Olympic sized torch.
