Bono: a rockstar AND he sells clothes, too!
Aww isn’t that sweet?
Here we have the legendary Bono of equally legendary rock band U2, with his wife Ali Hewson. The pair, along with designer Rogan Gregory have created a fashion line called Edun. Multi-platinum albums, an amazing career, a gorgeous wife…Is there nothing he CAN’T do?
Image courtesy of theage.com.au
Edun calls itself “socially conscious” because their main reason for existence is to provide sustainable employment for developing countries, particularly Africa. It is their way of showing the business sector a new way of doing business - the kind that doesn’t profit off another’s pain. Through Edun and Edun LIVE, they hope to provide a healthy battleground for both consumers and companies to practice good ethics by supporting Africa, with the intent of helping alleviate the continent’s state of poverty. It is no surprise that we now often hear the term “corporate social responsibility” when corporations talk about their business philosophy. Truly, the winds of change are blowing!
Actor Djimon Honsou for Edun ONE t-shirt.
Image courtesy of one.org
The clothing line is dedicated to using locally grown and produced material from Africa, to enable farmers and workers alike with means to sustain themselves. It is interesting to note that a large portion of their workforce is comprised of women. They use only organic cotton, stating that is is a “responsible environmental solution” and that it also “provides healthier working conditions” for farmers.
On a personal note, Edgy Ecology, Inc. has always believed in supporting local workers and producers. For us, hearing about these efforts is an encouragement to continue doing business this way. Thanks, Bono.
From the Edun LIVE statement:
…Africa accounted for six percent of world trade in 1980, but by 2002, Africa’s share of world trade had dropped to only two percent. If Africa could regain its share by one percentage point, the continent would earn an additional $70 billion in exports each year. The skills required in clothing manufacture are ones that many can learn, and the investments are relatively low. As a result, the clothing industry is a primary means by which these struggling African economies can climb onto the ladder of development.
EDUN is currently produced in India, Peru, Tunisia, Kenya, Uganda, Lesotho, Mauritius and Madagascar.
Follow Bono’s lead. Buy local, support local products and producers.
They say it is better to teach a man how to fish than to merely give him food. Filipinos do not lack any talent or desire to be industrious. Let us continue to find ways to support each other by supporting local farmers, workers and businessmen. Not only because we SHOULD, but because we CAN.
What are you doing in 7 days? April 22 is Earth Day. Don’t be left out!
