When they realized that the average garment gets worn 7 times before being tossed and the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global greenhouse emissions, Justine and Kendall Barber, co-founders of Poppy Barley, a Canadian slow fashion company focused on quality, sustainability and ethical production decided to create a new kind of luxury in fashion. And that they did — today, the brand is thriving and meeting the needs of consumers in search of responsible accessories.

Kendall has always been committed time to giving back to the community, as a member of the 1000 Women Advisory Committee for Norquest College, a board member for YWCA Edmonton, a run ambassador for Lululemon, and a supporter of Hope Mission’s Kids in Action program. She was selected as one of Avenue magazine’s 2014 Top 40 under 40 for her work at Poppy Barley, and Western Living’s list for the “Ones to Watch” round-up at the 2014 Designers of the Year Awards.

Justine’s work history, with time spent working in consulting, conflict prevention, and Alberta’s 10 Year Plan to end Homelessness, reflects her commitment to social change. She has won the Alumni Innovation award from the U of A and was named one of Western Living Designers of the Year, “Ones to Watch,” and Global Edmonton Woman of Vision.

This episode originally aired last season.

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Challenging every step of the footwear industry with Poppy Barley’s Justine and Kendall Barber