Social Entrepreneurship
We’ve been really interested in the whole concept of social entrepreneurship here at Bamboo Styles. We are happy to say the topic has hijacked several of our meetings. We like to think that we are providing clothing for individuals pursuing careers in social ventures. They seem to be the ones who flock towards socially aware products. I reached another level of intrigue when I went to hear Maria Teresa Leal speak at the Ross School of Business at U of M. It was fascinating to hear what this woman has achieved in Brazil through an apparel design and production co-op called Coopa Roca. Not only has she created sustainable labor for the 120 artisans she works with, they are intricately involved in the creative process. At their core, these businesses are not only providing employment, but they are restoring dignity to those with skill who have until now lacked an outlet.
http://www.pbs.org/opb/thenewheroes/pix/img_nh_leal.jpg
Anyhow, we got to talking one day about these educational programs that keep popping up where you can get a dual degree or integrate cross-disciplinary studies to get an MBA with a touch of Global Business Strategies, a dash of Public Policy or a bit of Environmental Studies. They’ve been around for a while now, but are definitely gaining momentum. It would take ages to write out all the programs available but here’s what CNNMoney.com considers to be the top schools for social entrepreneurship. Check it out!
And if you’re living the post-grad life, check out MBAs without borders.
http://www.mbaswithoutborders.org/
Brittany Moore is a regular contributor to the Bamboo Styles blog and also functions as VP of Business Development. She has an AFA in Fashion Design and Marketing from IADT-Detroit and resides in metro Detroit.