At last week’s NYC Pipeline Fellowship Investment Announcement Reception, I chatted with Shauna Mei and Matt Wilkerson about their venture, AHAlife. According to the founders, AHAlife isn’t just another e-commerce platform, it is an “online discovery destination where you can learn about – and purchase – the best unique products from around the world, collectively curated by our group of influential tastemakers.” To Shauna and Matt, the high quality and story behind each curated product are key to their business model. And after just over a year in business, they are beginning to launch pop-up shops in New York and will take their online store global by the end of the year.
Shauna Mei, AHAlife Founder & CEO, at the Pipeline Fellowship Reception
If you are CSR-minded, here are a couple reasons to love this young brand.
1. They support women investors, and with good reason. Half of their funding came from women-managed investment funds. AHAlife has shown its appreciation by collaborating with The Pipeline Fellowship, a new for-profit social enterprise that trains women philanthropists to become angel investors through education and mentorship.
2. They empower designers – both women & men – by providing them with distribution for their products. Notably, AHAlife’s Good Karma Products section features several products whose proceeds support a nonprofit or cause. Here are a few of my favorites … also great gift ideas for the holidays:
Girl Up Bracelet by Ivanka Trump - $40. One hundred percent of the net proceeds go toward the United Nations Girl Up foundation to provide basic necessities for girls in need.
Whistles for Peace in Congo - $44. By buying one and telling the story of the children soldiers in the Congo, you can become a whistleblower for peace. The Falling Whistles Foundation partners with local leaders to rehabilitate women and children, and advocate for those affected by the war. Available in gunmetal, bronze and brass.
Fair Trade Boxed Rafia Pillow by Mar Y Sol - $89. This subtle grey crocheted and macraméd pillow adds a delicate touch to any setting, plus it's handmade by artisans in Madagascar in a Fair Trade agreement that provides living wages and environmental conservation. Additional patterns available.
Scarves to Fight Malaria by Alexandra Taylor - $115. These witty, colorful scarves are lightweight and seasonless—and $10 from each purchase is donated to the United Nations Foundation's campaign to fight malaria.
