My interest in companies creating shared values led me to Global BC’s “Manitoba Footwear Company Strengthens Aboriginal Roots”. For those unfamiliar with Mukluks, here are some pictures:

Aren’t they cute?

Not only are these products functional and cute, they also create shared value. Manitobah Mukluks, Canada’s fastest growing footwear company, gives back to its aboriginal community by offering artist training programs at the school it has built, called the Storyboot School. This reminded me of the shared value lecture we had in class. The company wasn’t just merely giving a certain amount of profits to charity. Rather, it is creating sustainable value to its community by educating the aboriginals on how to make mukluks. This spreads awareness of the traditional culture and also aids employment as they will have specialized skills useful for shoe making. Although the school doesn’t serve as an extra revenue stream, Manitobah Mukluks certainly creates brand value through its contribution to the community.

I personally believe everyone, regardless of social or economic status should have access to education. As a person who once ran a business while building schools in rural China, I can respect businesses such as Manitobah Mukluks. I hope that their growing revenues won’t stop them from being authentic or helping the aboriginal community.

The original article can be found here.