Stewart Ramsey, a successful social entrepreneur and the founder of Krochet Kids intl., will present Carleton College’s weekly convocation on Friday, Feb. 28 from 10:50 to 11:50 a.m. in the Skinner Memorial Chapel. Entitled “Sustainable Social Entrepreneurship: Creating a Cycle of Success,” his presentation will highlight the power of engaged consumerism, and how consumers can really make a difference and change lives thanks to their purchasing decisions. Convocations are free and open to the public; they are also streamed live and can be viewed online at go.carleton.edu/convo/.
As high schools students, Ramsey and friends began selling hats they crocheted for a little spending money. In 2007, Ramsey and his friends turned this hobby into a global movement and founded Krochet Kids intl (KKi). Today, KKI is a non-profit lifestyle brand focused on empowering communities and engaging customers to make a sustainable impact on global poverty. Now, Ramsey and his friends are on a mission to revolutionize what it means to do ‘good’ business.
KKi’s mission is to provide quality, handmade products that not only bring comfort and style, but also serve as a vehicle for social change. Believing actions rooted in love produce powerful and lasting change, they strive to help people improve their lives physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Their slogan of, “Buy a hat. Change a Life,” embodies the difference we can all make through a simple act.
KKi employs more than 100 people in Northern Uganda through the production of their handmade headwear and fashion accessories, and have recently started a new program in Peru. Through crocheting, the women they employ learn self-reliance and economic independence. Customers can connect personally with the individuals who have crafted their products by sending thankful messages on KKi's website: www.krochetkids.org.
For more information about this event, including disability accommodations, contact the Carleton College Office of College Relations at (507) 222-4308. The Skinner Memorial Chapel is located on First Street between College and Winona Streets in Northfield.
