MANILA, Philippines - In its 25th year, Avida Land partners with one of the country’s social entrepreneurs to promote a lifestyle that inspires.
It has been seven years since a new business partnership and innovative business model rose out of the fringes of Metro Manila’s underprivileged communities in Payatas, Quezon City.
Shanties have given way to concrete houses, kids have returned to schools, and more dreams are becoming a reality with the help of Rags2Riches (R2R) — a business concept that empowers women in urban poor communities to become highly-skilled artisans who produce high quality clutches, bags, accessories, and home décor, among other things.
“This is not just about me or my business partners succeeding in this venture, from the start it is a business designed that our success will impact more on the women that we tap, on their families, on the community,” said Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, president of Rags2Riches.
As a social entrepreneurial venture, Rags2Riches ensures that each product is attributed to the artisan who painstakingly weaved and stitched the product to life.
“The story of our brand aims to inspire more people to pursue their passion and to create a positive impact on the community surrounding them,” added Ruiz-Fernandez. “Living your dream life is not just about you, it can also be in a way that by living your dream life, you also let others live the lives they only once dreamed about.”
Avida Land has been designing living spaces that allow individuals to engage in their passions – from music to the arts, climbing the corporate ladder, and other possibilities.