March 8th marks International Women's Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It's a day to honour the progress made towards gender equality and to recognise the invaluable contributions of women in various fields. At GEARSUPPLY, we want to celebrate and shine a spotlight on our brands – two remarkable women who are making waves in their respective industries: Michelle Kalberer, Co-founder of Klean Kanteen, and Calill Jagusch, CEO of Light My Fire.
Klean Kanteen: Celebrating Women's Collective Power
At Klean Kanteen, the spirit of International Women's Day is not confined to a single day but is celebrated every day. Michelle Kalberer, along with a cohort of dedicated women, is leading the charge towards a more inclusive and diverse workplace. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of gender diversity in leadership roles, and Klean Kanteen is embracing this ethos wholeheartedly.
Research shows that companies with greater gender diversity tend to be more profitable, and Klean Kanteen is a shining example of this. The Women's Collective Group at Klean Kanteen is a testament to the power of collaboration and cooperation. These women bring a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table, driving innovation and success within the company.
But it's not just about the bottom line at Klean Kanteen; it's about creating a culture of inclusivity and empowerment. The Women's Collective Group fosters a sense of camaraderie and solidarity, inspiring each other to reach new heights professionally and personally. Michelle Kalberer herself embodies the "Get Shit Done" mentality, proving that women are indeed forces to be reckoned with.
Light My Fire: Revolutionising Outdoor Gear with Calill Jagusch
Calill Jagusch, CEO of Light My Fire, is another trailblazing woman who is redefining the outdoor gear industry. Her journey began with a simple question: why does outdoor gear have to be so dull and utilitarian? With a vision to inject colour and creativity into the market, Calill embarked on a mission to design innovative products that are both functional and stylish.
In 2005, Light My Fire introduced its iconic meal kit, revolutionising the way people eat and drink in the great outdoors. But Calill didn't stop there; she also invented the now-famous spork, a versatile utensil that has become a staple for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. With over 60 million sporks sold and exported to countries around the globe, Calill's impact on the industry is undeniable.
But perhaps even more impressive than her entrepreneurial success is Calill's commitment to sustainability. In 2019, Light My Fire made the switch from plastics to bioplastics, setting a new standard for eco-friendly outdoor gear. Calill believes that sustainability should always be at the forefront of product design, and she challenges her industry peers to follow suit.
Celebrating Women's Leadership and Innovation
As we celebrate International Women's Day, let's take a moment to recognise and applaud the achievements of women like Michelle Kalberer and Calill Jagusch. Their leadership, innovation, and determination are not only driving their respective companies forward but also inspiring future generations of women to pursue their passions fearlessly.