It’s more important now than ever to be a conscious consumer. That’s a belief that’s echoed through Global Measure, where responsible fashion is their agenda. Spearheading Global Measure is Founder and CEO Deborah King, who has more than 10 years of experience working in fashion, supply chain logistics, and quality management. An avid animal lover, fashion enthusiast, and true crime junkie, Deborah believes that everyone can play a part toward a more sustainable future, no matter how small.
What does Asian Heritage Month mean to you?
“Asian Heritage Month is a celebration of the positive contributions and impacts of the Asian community. It provides appreciation, acknowledgment, and a call to action to uplift marginalized communities. Campaigns like those by Startup Canada help to provide exposure, understanding, and awareness of Asian cultures, which help to combat racism, discrimination, and stereotypes.”
Why did you start your business?
“Global Measure is a social enterprise that helps to certify the sustainable and ethical impacts of fashion businesses. I started this business after learning of the often poor working conditions faced by garment workers in typically Asian-based countries. These atrocious working conditions are typically driven by fast fashion, and a need to drive production and profits over the wellbeing of people and the planet. Studies show that if given the choice people will choose a sustainable and ethical alternative over a conventionally made one. Global Measure helps to certify the supply chain associated with fashion brands and helps consumers find brands in line with their values.”
What’s one piece of advice that you would give to yourself when you were first starting your business?
“My advice to myself: Stop expecting perfection from yourself. When I started this journey, I immersed myself in a post-grad education to help develop my skills and knowledge. I wanted to do everything “right” and wanted to be an expert in all areas. I quickly learned to leverage the expertise of others including my incredible mentor, peers, and qualified business professionals to create the vision in my head. I didn’t realize that by putting my passion and dreams out there I would be so supported. I’ve been so incredibly grateful for this lesson.”
This piece is part of Startup Canada’s wider campaign to celebrate and honour Asian Heritage Month. Find more entrepreneur stories such as Deborah’s in our full list of Asian entrepreneurs who are shaking up Canada.