Reflecting on 2024: A Journey of Growth, Connection, and Impact

As the year comes to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the many incredible experiences that shaped Wearsos in 2024. It was a year defined by collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to empowering communities and fostering sustainability. Through every milestone, we were reminded of the importance of working together to create meaningful change.

Here’s a look back at the stories that made this year unforgettable.

Starting the Year With New Perspectives

We began 2024 with a momentous event: the first-ever Wearsos Family Day at the San Jose Airport. For many of our team members, it was their first experience stepping onto an airplane. Together, with their families, we explored the behind-the-scenes world of aviation. The highlight? Boarding a Southwest Airlines plane and witnessing the very leather we upcycle in its original setting.

This day wasn’t just about visiting the airport—it was about creating connections. Watching children explore the cockpit, seeing artisans learn about the meticulous processes of aviation, and sharing conversations about education and opportunity reminded us of the importance of what we do. It was a day that reinforced how Wearsos bridges worlds, transforming discarded materials into opportunities for growth and empowerment.

In February, we had the honor of welcoming Tess, a creative visual profissional who helped redefine Wearsos’ branding. During her three weeks with us, she orchestrated a stunning photoshoot that captured the beauty and vibrancy of our products and mission. Tess’s work left a powerful mark on our storytelling, helping us visually communicate the heart of Wearsos.

Building Community Through Shared Experiences

In February, our team also traveled to Mollejones, a small community deeply tied to the Repurpose with Purpose program. We volunteered with the local community to strip airplane seats—a task more physically demanding than we ever imagined.

The day culminated in a heartfelt presentation by the Mollejones community, where children performed a drum routine using repurposed buckets and paraded with lit torches. Their joy and creativity reflected the far-reaching impact of upcycling—not just as a practice, but as a philosophy of creating something meaningful out of what might have been forgotten.

These moments reminded us of the real faces behind our work—the artisans, families, and children whose lives are touched by our collective efforts.

A Year of Milestones and Celebrations

March marked a major turning point for Wearsos as we launched our website on International Women’s Day. Months of teamwork culminated in a beautiful platform that now connects our mission to the world, empowering us to share our story and products globally.

Just a few days later, we embarked on a life-changing journey to Texas for the Luck Reunion, our first event in the U.S. For some of our artisans, it was their first time leaving Costa Rica. The response to our upcycled products was overwhelming, with countless conversations about sustainability and community empowerment.

Moments like these remind us of the importance of taking our mission beyond borders—to share what we do, connect with like-minded individuals, and inspire others to rethink what’s possible with upcycling.

In May, we undertook a Psychological 1 Year Review for our team, an initiative close to our hearts. This reflective process helped us evaluate our workplace dynamics and ensure that every artisan feels supported, empowered, and valued. It reaffirmed our commitment to prioritizing mental health and creating a safe, nurturing environment for our team

Milestones in Sustainability and Innovation

One of our proudest moments this year was being nominated for the D CEO Skift IDEA Changemakers Award in the People & Community category. Out of 350 submissions, our work was acknowledged for its purpose-driven impact, and we are deeply honored to have been recognized on such a global stage.

We also took major strides in showcasing our mission and work through airport exhibitions across the U.S., with installations in Denver and other locations. These exhibitions offered travelers a firsthand look at how upcycling and sustainability come to life in our products.

Education as a Tool for Change

Education has always been a cornerstone of Wearsos, and this year we had the privilege of welcoming students from ACU and participating at UWC Costa Rica in a talking series to engage with our mission.

Through hands-on experiences, ACU students learned about the circular economy, women’s empowerment, and the intersection of sustainability and social responsibility. Watching these young leaders engage with our work reaffirmed our belief in the power of knowledge to drive change.

At UWC Costa Rica’s Agents of Change series we had the chance to inspire students to think big and act boldly. Their energy and enthusiasm reminded us of why we do what we do: to plant seeds of empowerment that grow into impactful action.

Ending the Year on a High Note

Another memorable event was the International Fair and the Coffee Fair at CATIE, where we connected with regional organizations and showcased handmade leather flags crafted by our interns and artisans, along with our upcycled products. This initiative emphasized creativity and sustainability while deepening our community ties.

We also participated in the U of T Startup Holiday Market in December, where we introduced our soon-to-launch Pineapple Leather collection. Events like these allow us to connect with individuals who share our vision and inspire others to rethink sustainability.

Looking Ahead

2024 has been a year of transformation—for our team, our artisans, and our community. Every milestone, from crafting leather flags to launching our Pineapple Leather collection, is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and perseverance.

As we step into 2025, we carry with us the lessons, connections, and inspiration of this past year. Our journey wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners, customers, and community members who believe in our mission.

Thank you for being part of the Wearsos story. Together, we’re creating a world where sustainability meets opportunity, one upcycled product at a time.