WHO: LITTLE YELLOW BIRD

What: Produces ethically made work wear and uniforms.

How: A childhood in Indonesia followed by studies in international security equipped 27- year- old New Zealander Samantha Jones with a clear perspective of the poverty and lack of opportunity for young women in developing countries. When she jumped careers from a uniformed role with the Royal New Zealand Air Force to a corporate job she discovered a dearth of ethically made business garments. Launching Little Yellow Bird – a company that sources raw materials from India and bases its manufacturing operations in Bangalore, Delhi and Kolkata – has allowed Samantha and her business partner, 25- year- old lawyer Hannah Duder, to ensure its workforce receives fair wages, has a safe working environment and access to education and healthcare. “As well as making our garments under ethical conditions from organic and fair trade materials we support the communities we’re involved in. We’ve funded several young women through school, we provide training programmes, small loans for micro- enterprises and equipment for rural schools.” Little Yellow Bird is also a passionate campaigner for sustainable fashion. The Wellington- based business is experiencing strong growth “as Kiwi businesses switch into sustainability” and has sold more than 5000 units in the past year. “We want to be an example of achieving profitability but in the right way – with respect for the environment and the people.” littleyellowbird. co. nz