#TheGoodSquad Interview with Kathryn Boese, Founder of Guru For Life

This week on the Good Blog we interview an inspiring business owner and designer of a women's clothing brand handmade in India.  Kathryn Boese founded her company, GURU in 2007 with a mission to practice fair trade principles and create clothing in an ethical manner. Kathryn Boese, owner and designer of GURU, collaborates with local artisans in Rajasthan, India, from design to production. Upcycling vintage Indian saris and end-of-roll fabrics.  Because the saris have a history, they could also have tiny flaws that are hidden by the stunning beauty of each one. Like our own individual imperfections, these kinds of little flaws are accepted. as nobody and nothing is flawless.

We are inspired by Kathryn and her journey with Guru, check out the interview below!

1. Tell us about where the idea for GURU came from.
Guru means teacher in Hindi. I chose the name because I liked how it sounded, it just rolled off the tongue. I knew the meaning of course. However, I could never have known that I would become a teacher to so many of the people I worked with in the small village in Rajasthan.

2. I understand that you work with local artisans from India, how did you start working with artisans and why do you think it’s essential to empower local artisans from India?
I went to India with the desire to make clothing that fit and suited the Canadian woman. I chose Rajasthan because that is where so much of the colour seemed to be. I wanted to work with local artisans because I loved their traditional craftwork and wanted to include it in my designs. I continued to work with the artisans because I loved the way we created together to make the designs. In life, I always want to empower people, whether it is in the Guru home base, our Canadian community or in Indian villages. Being able to help create jobs and give women an opportunity to have a home business in India is incredibly rewarding.


3. Can you share any inspirational stories that came from your journey with GURU?
Where to start…working in the same village for almost a quarter of a century, I have met so many people and their families. I have watched their kids grow up and then start in their families' businesses. I have attended marriages, gatherings to introduce new babies and just get-togethers with family. Sharing their joy, challenges and sorrow that life brings us all.

4. Has there been a challenge you’ve had to overcome as a woman starting a business in this industry? 
Respect for women running a business in Asia has always been a challenge.  I have many loyal suppliers who help tremendously. Unfortunately, I do not think that the men’s mentality toward women has changed in the majority of Indian villages.


5. Do you have any favourite pieces in your collection? Which is a best seller? 
Oh, so many!  My favourite category is the kimonos & robes. So many customers get so much joy from wearing them which warms my heart.

6. What has been your most successful achievement or what have you accomplished so far? 
Pioneering upcycling in Canada is my most successful achievement. I’m proud that the sustainable movement is growing and I am happy to continue to be a part of it.
 
7. Any exciting future plans for GURU in 2023? 
We’re excited to continue to explore the US market by attending trade shows south of the border.

 

If you love bohemian unique fashion designs and would like to purchase clothing that supports fairtrade principles, in turn helping local workers and the environment, GURU is the store for you! 

For more information, check out the links below: