Mon 3rd Aug 2020
by Creative Quarter
Yen Goo of West Bridgford-based business Parugo Upcycle is in line to be named the Great British Disruptor of the Year at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.
Work NewsYen Goo, founder of Paguro Upcycle, an ethical fashion accessory brand based in West Bridgford, has made the shortlist for the Disruptor of the Year category at the regional finals of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.
Yen, who had always been interested in fashion, founded Paguro Upcycle after she had become disillusioned with what she saw on the high street. Yen’s nomination follows her speaking out on the recent Boohoo and fast fashion controversy in Leicester’s factories:
“We’re seeing fast fashion producers put the welfare of their people at risk in the pursuit of profit as well as the environmental consequences of overconsumption writ large in the world's oceans. It is high time that the industry refocused its social and environmental purpose and I hope this nomination is recognition of the efforts that we are making at Paguro Upcycle. I long for a high street which shares my passion for individuality, quality and sustainability.”
From inner tube wallets to army tent wash bags, Paguro’s products incorporate a wide range of reclaimed, recycled and repurposed materials. By chance, Yen came across a designer while travelling in South East Asia, whose mission was to create ethical bags and accessories using repurposed and recycled materials. What makes these products special to Yen is the imaginative way in which the materials have been reinvented and the positive impact that their creation was having on the local community.
She chose the name Paguro because she sees the hermit crab as something of an inspiration, which is why she chose the Latin name for their brand.
Yen said:
“I’m blown away to be nominated and make it to the finals for this award. This year has been tough, but being recognised for my hard work, after building this company up myself from scratch, is so rewarding.”
Founded in 2013, the Great British Entrepreneur Awards acknowledges the hard work and inspiring stories of entrepreneurs and businesses in the United Kingdom.
The Awards have celebrated some outstanding entrepreneurs who have gone on to become household names. Previous winners include the founders of BrewDog, Tangle Teezer, The LAD Bible, Clearscore & The Cambridge Satchel Company.
This year, with face to face events challenging, the regional heats will be celebrated online on Wednesday 23 September.
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