You never know where inspiration will strike. In the case of our next guest, it was a chance trip halfway around the world that enabled her to find a way to connect the world in a beautiful way. We’ll let her explain.
Please tell us about yourself:
My name is Terri-Lynn Woodhouse founder of One1Earth.
You are working on something pretty cool. Care to share a little bit about that?
We work directly with our Artisan Partners in developing countries to help give them dignified, sustainable incomes. We bring their beautiful, handmade goods to North America to share with all of us here.
We collaborate on designs and offer training on doing business with a North American Consumer. The results have been amazing! We work with women’s co-ops, small Family workshops, Weaving co-ops and individual Artisans.
We also have over 200 World Changers, who have their own business in their communities who share our story, create their own and earn an income.
People helping people is what we are all about.
What made you decide to follow that path?
It was a chance trip to Africa. There is something about first hand seeing how other people live and knowing that you are lucky enough to have the skills to help them that inspires and empowers. Our business model isn’t a charitable one, its teaching people skills so they can flourish and paying ethically. At the end of the day, traveling so much and spending time in developing countries, you realize that we are all the same.
What outcome do you hope to achieve?
We hope to continue to grow and expand not only in our World Changing Consultant community but also our community of Artisan Partners. In two years we have had amazing growth but there is more work to do.
Walk us through your average day:
When I am home in Canada it is entirely different then when I’m working with our Artisan Partners.
In Canada:
1) Stretch! So important
2) Coffee and breakfast
3) A walk with my dog or bike ride (clears the mind and allows focus)
From there it all depends, a typical day includes lots of communication – whether through email, Skype, or WhatsApp, I talk to our folks in Morocco and Peru. I also speak with our Consultants through email, conference calls, Facebook.
You name it, there is lots of communication across many time zones, cultures and languages.
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what 3 things would you bring?
Actually, funny story: I was in the Sahara Desert a little while ago, and we spent the night in a Berber Camp. I will share what I brought.
Always Be Prepared
1) A fully charged smart phone for two reasons:
a) You can take photos and videos to record the amazing experience
b) In case of trouble (yes you can get a cell signal in the Sahara Desert)
2) Water is so important. I’m not sure what it is (maybe it’s looking at all that sand)but your thirst factor goes up 1000% – never mind the exertion of climbing the dunes!
3) A One1Earth Berber Scarf, which is so handy and versatile to keep warm at night or use in case of a sand storm. (Remember rule 1: Always be prepared).
Thank you for sharing Terri-Lynn! Find her on Facebook at OneEarth11.