Celebrating our female founder this International Women’s Day!
International Women’s Day (8th March) is a global occasion to celebrate the achievements, contributions, and resilience of women all over the world. This day is not just a reminder of how far we've come, but also a call to continue pushing for gender equality, empowering women, and honouring those who are breaking barriers in their respective fields.
One such inspiring story is right here in Ecobags. Our homegrown New Zealand-based business proudly champions sustainability, community, and female entrepreneurship. It was founded by the passionate and determined Simren, and this business is a testament to the power of vision and commitment in making a positive difference in the world.
Our Journey at Ecobags
Ecobags began as Simren’s brainchild, driven by her belief that small changes can have a lasting impact on the environment. After recognising the need for eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, Simren set out to create a business that would help Kiwis reduce their environmental footprint.
First, she produced reusable tote bags from her home. Her stylish, durable bags made from sustainable materials soon took off and she pulled in the help of husband Jas, and employed her first staff members, as she outgrew the garage and set up shop in East Tamaki. Hoping to inspire others to make conscious, eco-friendly choices in their daily lives she expanded the product range to include compostable and recycled bags and packaging as well as her original eco totes.
Simren didn’t take this journey alone. While Ecobags was her dream, her husband, Jas, has played an invaluable role in supporting the business through his hands-on involvement. Their partnership is a beautiful blend of teamwork and shared values, with Simren’s vision and Jas’ leadership driving the company forward.
A female-led business with a family touch
It’s clear that Simren’s passion for environmental sustainability extends beyond business—it’s a mission that stems from a deep desire to create positive change. She has shown that women can lead with purpose and strength. The dedication she’s shown in making Ecobags a success is a reflection of the hard work that so many women exhibit every day, whether they’re building businesses, raising families, or championing causes they believe in.
Simren’s entrepreneurial journey also highlights the importance of a strong support system. In addition to the mainly female team around her, husband Jas has been there every step of the way—offering support, advice, and even lending his IT and leadership skills to ensure the business runs smoothly. Together, they’ve created a legacy that celebrates sustainability, resilience, and the power of family. And it’s perhaps no surprise then that both of their own children have grown to become entrepreneurs themselves.
Why supporting female entrepreneurs matters
In a world where women still face challenges in many industries, businesses like ours stand out as a beacon of possibility. Female entrepreneurs, like Simren, demonstrate that with vision, dedication, and a little bit of support, women can create businesses that make a real difference. They inspire future generations of women to follow their passions, whether it’s in the business world or any other field.
We hope that Simren’s story proves that entrepreneurship isn’t reserved for a select few—it’s for anyone with a good idea and the determination to make it happen.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s not just celebrate women’s achievements in business, but also commit to supporting female entrepreneurs and breaking down barriers for the next generation. Let’s continue to support and celebrate entrepreneurs like Simren and Jas, whose partnership and passion are making the world a better place, one sustainable bag at a time.