Michelle Chow’s candles not only smell great, but their containers can also be turned into planters. Her Kickstarter-funded Pass It On project has helped Chow expand her influence. During the past five years, she has founded a namesake creative studio and launched Green-House, an immersive retail festival promoting sustainability.
“I’m very grateful for all the opportunities I have been given and it is very surreal to think it all started as a single Kickstarter project to raise funds for Eden: People + Planet (formerly Eden Reforestation Projects). I’m excited to keep pushing the needle on sustainability in urban living,” Chow says.
The effects of climate change make it imperative for us to start making conscious consumption decisions, she asserts.
At last month’s Green-House event, 80 brands participated in three immersive concept zones with workshops and key experiences. More than 17,000 people attended and 17,196 trees were planted for Eden: People + Planet.
“We want to continue showing ways to incorporate little acts of mindfulness through adapting and adjusting to promote sustainability, even among those who aren’t driven by being eco-friendly or who aren’t sure where to begin.”
Michelle Chow on capturing a larger market
She adds: “Green-House lets us connect with a wider audience by showcasing the many little things we can all do to improve the world collectively.”
Currently, Chow is busy with her Pass It On studio and retail website. She continues to conduct meticulous research to engage suppliers who share her quality standards and can grow with her brand in the long term by developing new materials.
They must demonstrate sustainable practices at all levels, from sourcing to waste management, manufacturing, and worker welfare. The process also includes numerous factory visits and discussions with founders before they are onboarded.
“I’m constantly challenging myself and my team to consider how we can effectively inspire and educate on the topic of living more sustainably. To encourage sustainable living as a journey instead of an end goal, we communicate in simple terms. This translates into the products we curate for our website and Green-House, which connects local and independent brands with consumers,” Chow explains.
Actively pursuing meaningful work alongside activities that spark personal satisfaction leaves her feeling fulfilled and content. “When something is bigger than you are, there is no end to what you can accomplish to make the world a better place. All you can do is try to take it a step at a time.
“This resilience, influenced by the last few years, helps me recommit every day to uplifting communities, fostering collaborations, and innovating new solutions to inspire a new generation of changemakers.”
Art director: Ed Harland
Videographer: Alicia Chong
Camera assistant: Yvonne Isabelle Ling
Photographer: Zaphs Zhang
Photographer’s assistant: Jaron Tay
Hair: Michael Chiew
Makeup: Sarah Tan
Location: PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore
