Dansk Industri: A lifelong project that gives women in Bangladesh a better future

This week DI Startup published an article that explains why I started Manelleh, my desire to support women, and some of the challenges of being an entrepreneur.

I also address the throwaway culture. Here is a short excerpt:

For Maria, Manelleh is also about challenging the way we as consumers view price and value:

“Many people ask, 'Why does a cushion cost 500 or 600 kroner?' In relation to that question, I find it more interesting to ask yourself: How can it be possible to sell a cushion for 50 kroner? Because I can't see how that can be possible - not if you want to take responsibility for your value chain and ensure decent wages, working conditions and materials.”

She points out that Temu, Shein and other low-cost giants keep alive a consumer mindset and a world characterized by excess and rapid buying:

“For me, it is about a shared responsibility that concerns businesses, suppliers, consumers, legislation, etc. Because the price is ultimately paid by those at the other end who produce the cheap products under far too poor wage and working conditions.”

Read the full article here