Success in Helping: The Rags2Riches Story

Rags2Riches (R2R) is a social venture established in 2007 by Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, a young Filipina business person who wanted to help the marginalized sectors in the Philippines by providing them with livelihood opportunities that are sustainable.

R2R works with neighborhood craftsmen from different sectors throughout the nation, especially those living in impoverished regions.

The majority of these artisans are women and are taught how to make high-quality goods from recycled and sustainable materials like scrap cloth, organic fibers, and indigenous fabrics.

R2R has grown from a small startup into a well-known brand that has gained recognition both locally and internationally under Fernandez-Ruiz’s leadership. R2R was named one of Forbes Asia 30 under 30 in 2017 and won the Asia Pacific Social Entrepreneurship Award in 2015.

In addition to providing opportunities for earning a living, R2R is committed to social and environmental sustainability. The brand uses eco-friendly materials and production methods, guarantees safe working conditions for its craftsmen, and guarantees fair wages.

Through its “Community Enterprise Development” program, R2R also helps its partner communities become more financially literate and entrepreneurial. This program gives communities the tools and training they need to start and run their own businesses, allowing them to become self-sufficient and financially secure.

The goals that Fernandez-Ruiz has for R2R go beyond just making the company a success. She is of the opinion that social entrepreneurship has the potential to effect positive social change and that marginalized communities can break free from the cycle of poverty by providing them with opportunities to improve their lives.

Today, R2R products can be found locally and internationally in a variety of stores and online platforms. The success of the brand not only exemplifies the potential of social enterprises in the Philippines, but it also serves as a source of motivation for other aspirant entrepreneurs who want to make a difference in their communities. (GFB)