A Common Thread: Lauren Baird, Ways of Change

A Common Thread continues as we connect with a young entrepreneur helping to positively impact refugee artisans affected by conflict and migration.

During a family trip to Bali, Lauren Baird and her cousin Cara Boccieri became inspired by the unique traditional skills of refugee artisans from the Thailand Burma border. Motivated to provide these refugees with access to an international market to sell their products, the cousins founded Ways of Change -- a collection of thoughtful accessories. Lauren's work as co-founder and creative director of the brand helps to fuse together tradition (the preservation of beautiful generational skill sets) with that of modern style.

What are you most passionate about changing or enhancing in the world?

I am most passionate about inspiring women to feel their most confident and fabulous selves through education on ethical and sustainable fashion. As a stylist I see on a regular basis how people's attitudes can change based on how they feel in what they are wearing. I want that to translate into spreading the ethical fashion movement through confidence boosting and gorgeous ethical clothing and accessories.

What motivates your drive for social good?

The amazing and talented refugee artisans that we work with at Ways of Change are a huge driving force and motivator for me to continue working for social good. Meeting and seeing how our fabulous customers style Ways of Change in a multitude of inspirational and stylish ways is another amazing motivator for me.

"I am most passionate about inspiring women to feel their most confident and fabulous selves through education on ethical and sustainable fashion."

What has been you biggest challenge or highest hurdle?

Wow, that is a tough one. I like to think of challenges and hurdles more like motivators. I would say juggling a full time job in a fast moving industry while also working on my own business Ways of Change is an exciting and motivating challenge I face everyday and it for sure keeps me striving for more.

What are three words that best describe the "common thread" that exists in your life?

Family, love and inspiration would be the three "common threads' that exist in my life. My family and friends inspire me beyond words, I like to surround myself with love and try to exude that in myself everyday, and I am constantly inspired by everything the world has to present around me.

"I like to surround myself with love and try to exude that in myself everyday... I am constantly inspired by everything the world has to present around me."

Describe your own personal 'sanctuary'. Where is it? What is it like?

I am lucky enough to call a number of amazing places around the world home. One of my sanctuaries that always inspires me is in San Jose Del Cabo. I lived there for a year with my boyfriend and fell in love with the place! The light in the evenings is out of this world, the colors in the downtown are beautiful and I always feel refreshed near water and the ocean in Cabo is magical! Cabo is my sanctuary because it brings me back to the simplicity of life and all you need is a roof over your head, food and good people around you, and Cabo has all of that for me. And my favorite taco spots!

Learn more about her company Ways of Change.