Vannia Flores Forsyth is a Peruvian-born and raised entrepreneur and 2022 UBC Anthropology graduate.
Looking back on my time at UBC, it’s clear that my anthropology degree didn’t just fill my head with facts, it shaped my perception of the world. Tackling complex problems with no simple answers has prepared me well for what lies ahead in campus life.
It wasn’t just cultural studies. It was about learning how to navigate the gray areas of life.
Shortly after deciding to major in anthropology, I enrolled in a GEOG 120 class with my best friend Grace for credit and camaraderie. At first, this geography class seemed like a mere offshoot of my anthropology major, as it required memorization of cloud types: cirrus, stratus, and cumulus.
But throughout the course, I learned some important lessons about the principles of climate, hydrology, geomorphology, biogeography, and anthropogenic change, as well as how quarterly shopping at the mall We have developed a comprehensive understanding of what is done. What I was used to had a negative impact on the planet.
This important turning point occurred while working on a research project on the pressing issue of fast fashion. It shocked me to the core. The fashion industry’s relentless pursuit of profit at the expense of both people and the planet was something I just couldn’t study and forget.
The hard truths from scientific research shocked me. As I sit cross-legged in $25 sneakers and a cheap sweater from Costco, I am struck by the carelessness with which the fashion industry contributes to climate change, water pollution, ocean pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. I did.
Why have I become so apathetic? I began to question my complacency with this cycle of destruction. I am shocked by unsustainable, unethical, exploitative labor practices and a model of overconsumption and waste driven by a trend-driven pop culture industry, resulting in the loss of millions of tons of fiber each year. Waste was generated.
Amidst the noise of the Irving K. Barber Learning Center at 3 a.m., I had one moment of clarity. Somehow I was able to connect the dots and gain a concrete understanding. It sparked an idea of how to incorporate my anthropological background into my business venture, along with a real concern for our collective environmental footprint.
Sacred Warmth was born in September 2023 as my job search became more serious and I wanted to create something meaningful with my skills and life.
My background was in anthropology rather than business, which meant that I had a wide range of skills and not only meant an ever-daunting lack of ‘expertise’ suitable for corporate roles, but also the unknown. It also meant stepping into the realm of. Nevertheless, armed with confidence in his skills and the lessons he learned from UBC: critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, awareness of ethical business practices, and the belief that “everything matters” I have. It can be understood“” became my North Star.
If I were still in school, I would have absorbed every lesson, every critique, every insight. The skills you’re developing aren’t just for passing exams. You have a deeper understanding of turning intellectual prose into practice. UBC not only gave me a prestigious diploma, but also put me through the challenges of starting a business with a mission to tackle the very problems I once wrote an essay about.
By combining my business model with support for philanthropy, I not only challenge the prevailing norms of the fashion industry, but also champion a model where fashion acts as a force for good. As a researcher turned entrepreneur, I have used my understanding of the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion.
Looking back, I realize that this path I have taken is not a departure from my academic roots, but rather a continuation of my efforts to understand and improve human interaction with the environment. Ta. The challenges of sustainable business practices are as complex as other cultural systems studied in anthropology and require the application of theoretical knowledge in practical and impactful ways.
Studying history and culture during my degree complicated my understanding of capitalism and its shortcomings, which initially weakened my initial desire to start a business. But ultimately, these feelings fostered curiosity and courage to speak up and innovate creative ways to challenge the status quo. As the saying goes, you need to know the rules before you break them.
For me, it took a lot of courage, I mean, a lot Its. It took over 150 essays to incorporate my ideas, opinions, and voice to share the vision I stand for.
I was scared of failure, but I was even more scared of not trying.My anthropology degree was Method More than filling your head with facts. It showed me who I really am, beyond all labels and identities. Having my voice heard has nurtured my ideas and allowed me to be resourceful and dare to make changes.
Your voice, experience, and ideas have power. The illusion of greatness while remaining small serves no one.
No matter who you are or where you are, I know you are full of breakthrough ideas. My journey has taught me not to wait for the perfect moment to chase them.
Share your dreams, ask for help along the way, and actually We will continue to support you according to your help. After all, when the student is ready, the master will appear.
This is a review article. reflects only the views of the author, does not reflect the opinion of Ubissey as a whole. Have something to say about what you just read? Join the conversation and respond with a letter to the editor, or post your own at: ubyssey.ca/pages/submit-an-opinion.
