Bobbi Paidel of Tribe of Lambs (INTERVIEW)

SocialBusiness.org recently talked to Bobbi Paidel of Tribe of Lambs, a new start-up aimed at tackling global social change and theories (and practice!) of compassion through online retail. Or more succinctly as Paidel put it: "The end goal is to act as a bridge for monetary support into non-government organizations in developing economies."

We covered this cool emerging social business earlier this month but now we got the chance to dig a little deeper into the backstory of what makes Tribe of Lambs also a tribe of love. Here, Bobbi Paidel shares some of her personal inspiration.

Four Questions with Bobbi Paidel

1. How did the idea for the business come about?

Coming to India and experiencing a cultural diversity so far from anything I had ever known inspired me to not only help the millions of at-risk children, but to also share the beauty which is so vast within the artisan communities here. The divide between "east and west" is so wide in how we live, give and consume. I wanted to find a way to help consumers not only buy unique products from global markets but to also be a space where shopping becomes less about individual desires and more about collective needs.

The amazing thing is that the fair trade products we offer are modern, high quality and competitively priced. It's a total win/win situation. I recognized an opportunity in which I could potentially make a small difference with the skill set and experience I had -- there was no other option for me than to just go for it.

2. How did you decide to join this sector?

The Tribe of Lambs end goal is to act as a bridge for monetary support into non-government organizations in developing economies. There are many locally run organizations which have the time, energy and understanding of their communities to make huge improvements in social issues but lack the resources to thrive. Through partnering with these groups we can work on a project to project basis and track our impact. After witnessing firsthand the unmet needs of so many children, I felt strongly that working in the nonprofit sector (currently transitioning to NP) would be the most beneficial way to raise awareness and make change.

3. How do you get your inspiration?

Inspiration comes from people loving each other, worldly fashion and style, and travel adventures. For me, Tribe of Lambs is the perfect way to blend life, work and social change. I want to offer myself to others and hope to inspire them to do the same.

4. How do you reset yourself to be creative? Do you have any rituals?

I'm reset creatively every day when I receive a smile from a stranger, a warm cup of chai or a laugh with a friend. It's the little things and uncertainties of life which keep it exciting!