Bridging Education, Sustainability, and Community Impact 🌍

Introduction

In the second week of January, students from Franklin College, in partnership with Beyond Sports, visited Turrialba for a transformative 5-day itinerary centered on regenerative touris, and circular economy. This immersive experience connected students with the heart of Wearsos’ mission: To drive positive community-driven impact, one upcycle product at a time.

Experiencing Mollejones: The Start of the Upcycling Process

The students had the unique opportunity to visit Mollejones, a small rural community integral to Wearsos’ operations. Here, our airplane seats are dismantled and cut into pieces that later become the foundation of our upcycled goods. Students engaged firsthand with this process, trying it out themselves and gaining a deeper understanding of the hard work and collaboration that fuels the Repurpose with Purpose initiative.

To end the visit on a sweet note, the group participated in a bread-making tour hosted by Laura, a Mollejones artisan whose main income comes from tourism activities. This experience highlighted the power of community-driven tourism and Wearsos’ pride in collaborating with individuals like Laura, whose work reflects both creativity and resilience.

The Wearsos Workshop: Where Impact Comes to Life

Back at the Wearsos workshop, something magical happened. Students met our artisans, explored our space, and learned our story and mission. They didn’t just observe—they participated by crafting and painting their very own upcycled luggage tags, made from retired airplane seat leather.

These small, hands-on moments matter. They show how seemingly simple actions—like making a luggage tag—can contribute to a larger movement of sustainability. These unique upcycled tags now carry stories of impact and purpose, ready to travel the world and inspire others.

Sustainable Agriculture at Nortico Cacao Farm

The tour also included a visit to Nortico Cacao Farm, a family-run farm and one of Wearsos’ long-term friends and partners. Here, students experienced firsthand how sustainable practices in agriculture can support livelihoods and build stronger communities. Seeing the farm’s dedication to employing local people, paying fair wages, and maintaining eco-friendly methods left a lasting impression on the group.

Honouring Creativity: Marielos Pottery Workshop

To honour Professor Berry Barnes from Franklin College, the group visited Marielos Pottery for a ceramic workshop led by talented Maria Salazar Cabezas, Turrialba’s very own artist. This experience highlighted the vibrant creativity and craftsmanship of Turrialba’s artisans, showcasing how local talent thrives when given the opportunity. Supporting and celebrating these artists is a key part of Wearsos’ mission to uplift the community.

Exploring Nature at Humedales Lancaster

The final day of the tour brought the group to Humedales Lancaster, a life sanctuary that protects wildlife. The serene beauty of this natural haven offered students a moment to reflect on the importance of preserving the environment. This experience tied together the themes of the trip: sustainability, community, and the deep connection between people and nature.

The Importance of Immersive Study Abroad Experiences

Academic experiences like this one are invaluable for both students and the communities they visit. For students, it’s a chance to move beyond the classroom and experience the realities of sustainable development, community impact, and cultural exchange. For communities like Turrialba, these visits bring visibility, collaboration, and opportunities for growth.

At Wearsos, we believe in the power of shared experiences to create lasting impact. By fostering understanding, connection, and hands-on learning, we plant the seeds for a more sustainable and equitable future.

Reach out with any questions regarding our work with diverse groups of any age to craft the perfect academic experience. 

Feel free to reach out with any questions about our work in creating tailored academic experiences for diverse groups of all ages.

Thank you for being a part of the Wearsos journey. Together, we can continue to make a difference.