Barefoot Tech
A Swansea-based designer who launched her sustainable fashion label during lockdown upcycling old wetsuits destined for landfill is already making waves in the industry with multiple accolades.
23-year-old Ffion McCormick Edwards founded Barefoot Tech with the support of Big Ideas Wales in a bid to tackle the volume of old, unused wetsuits that are adding to the environmental impact caused by landfill. On the launch of Barefoot Tech, Ffion said: “It has been a dream to see my business grow here in Wales while also staying true to my core values of family and sustainability and targeting a community of surfers and sportspeople that are conscious in their buying habits.
The recognition I’ve had so far through award wins and featuring at iconic industry events like London Fashion Week has been so encouraging.”On discussing the benefits of Big Ideas Wales, Ffion said: “Big Ideas Wales has been such a key support system for me as an independent entrepreneur.
When it comes to the nitty gritty requirements of launching and maintaining a business – from registering as a sole trader to tax – Big Ideas Wales jumped into action to support me.“I’d encourage any young entrepreneur in Wales with a business idea – big or small – to contact Big Ideas Wales. I have benefitted hugely from my monthly one-one-one meetings where I can put all of my plans and ideas on to the table and mould them into a strong business plan week upon week. I always find myself leaving my meetings inspired and setting more goals for myself. I would not be where I am today, working full time as a self-employed entrepreneur, without their support”