The call of the ocean has always been in my blood. Growing up in the Philippines, my father worked on oil tankers, a nomad of the seas. His travels sparked a yearning in me for adventure and a desire to see the world beyond our shores. Years later, that dream took me to the United States, where I built a new life and a family of my own. Travel has been a constant, a chance to explore the beauty of Europe and reconnect with my Filipino heritage.
The NomadWeave Dream
But there was a constant challenge – packing! Juggling clothes for myself and five kids taught me the magic of layering and lightweight, versatile pieces. Inspired by those European travels and my own experiences, NomadWeave was born. It’s more than just creating travel-friendly clothing, it’s about embracing a bohemian spirit, simplifying life through mix-and-match style, and doing it all ethically and sustainably.
Behind the Scenes: The Search for Conscious Sourcing
My initial research has illuminated the complexities of the garment industry: opaque supply chains, a potential lack of transparency, but also a growing movement towards an ethical approach. My commitment is to find partners in the Philippines who share my values. Here’s where my focus lies:
- Local Communities: I want to connect with weaving cooperatives, indigenous communities, and NGOs focused on sustainable livelihoods within Samar and Eastern Samar.
- The Guiuan Connection: I’ve reached out to my hometown of Guiuan, seeking potential partners and exploring local craftsmanship.
- Ethical Choices: A focus on fair wages, environmental responsibility, and preserving traditional techniques is at the heart of NomadWeave.
This Journey is Just Beginning…
Join me as I navigate this path! I’ll share updates on fabric discoveries, behind-the-scenes glimpses with potential partners, and the challenges and triumphs of building an ethical brand. If you have suggestions for communities, artisans, or materials that align with the NomadWeave vision, please share!