Defining Impact: Turning Waste Into Opportunity

Driven by curiosity and a desire to create, brothers Jude and Oliver began developing eco-friendly products using locally sourced materials. Jude founded his business Eco-Hide and gathered high-quality leather scraps from an upholsterer to transform them into functional items such as coin purses, keychains, and cord holders. Meanwhile, Oliver created his product line called Zipster Co. by using fabric remnants collected from their grandmother and transformed into various pouches. Both students breathed new life into to materials that would have otherwise been discarded and forgotten.

Their collective work reflects a powerful idea that waste can be untapped opportunity.

At a young age, Jude and Oliver are developing fundamental skills while also gaining a deeper understanding of sustainability in practice. Their businesses embody the principles of responsible consumption and production, as they extend the lifecycle of materials and reduce unnecessary waste. Additionally, they confidently share their passion for the environment to customers which has inspired their community and advocated for more eco-friendly practices. The journey of both siblings is a powerful example of how entrepreneurial education can align with global priorities like the UN’s SDG goals. They are not only increasing awareness about sustainability but they are actively advancing it.

Furthermore, thanks to partners such as BC Hydro, PowerPlay can support more sustainable initiatives in classrooms and beyond. Watch a recent interview with Jude here: