The past few years have shown us a lot about our current capitalist model — massive income inequality and the idea that human lives and environmental impacts can be sacrificed for higher profits. The change makers in the growing B Corp community say: enough! Profit should not come at the expense of purpose, care for people and the planet. It's time to wake up. Time for action.
At Blyde, we challenge the status quo. We believe in the power of working together, standing for something and inspiring people by showing what can and should change. In the Wake-Up Calls, Blyde stimulates that appetite for positive change. We're listening to various B Corp voices sharing their call to action for companies around the world. By letting people from all over the world speak, we show how important the role of companies is in this decade of action. 'On stage' now: Jochem Hes, one of the founding fathers by NAÏF.
What was your wake-up call to contribute to a better world?
Be a dad! A life-changing moment for all parents. In a positive way. For the first time, you really have responsibility: taking care of your child. You want to do it well, in the best possible way. When Sjoerd (co-founder of Naïf) and I went to buy baby products, we were shocked at how many harmful ingredients were in them. That didn't feel good. So we decided to make the products we missed ourselves: baby care with only natural ingredients, good for the skin and the planet.
An inspiring story and a great example for other companies. What is your call to companies around the world?
Do you have an idea you want to develop? Just do it. It's not complicated, just use your wits and be honest. There are so many people with great ideas who are afraid to speak them out or carry them out. Especially in large companies, everything often remains the same. While consumers increasingly care about sustainability. Change is necessary.
The Sustainable Development Goals are a perfect tool for accelerating that change. Which one appeals to you the most and why?
We have set up our Impact Goals around product, supply chain and meaningful work. For example, Naïf contributes to 7 of the 14 Sustainable Development Goals. We make products with minimal impact on the environment, organize our chain with the smallest possible footprint and give our employees space for a fulfilling career.
What are your biggest dreams, wishes and plans for the future? What is the biggest milestone for 2025?
My hope for Naïf? Become the #1 baby brand in the Benelux. That means: no more harmful ingredients for children. No more rashes from creams that parents use. And hopefully, we'll set the tone for other brands to do the same. Plus: the bigger we get, the more impact we can make.
Naïf recently became B Corp, congratulations! Which company would you challenge to become a B Corp too and why?
All personal care brands: join us! This is how we can really change this old-fashioned industry and turn personal care into REAL care.
Change starts with people who speak up. Are you thinking of someone — or are you the one — who could be the next wake-up call? Contact us at info@blyde.nl
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