In 2020, Surabhi Jain decided to do what many of us are afraid of doing – she turned her hobby into a business. Surabhi creates unique stationary products from sustainable and organic hemp paper for her business called Hastkala. Not only does she ensure that her materials come from sustainable and trustworthy sources, she also centers the business on supporting Canadian refugee women in their education, careers, and independence.
Surabhi relocated to Canada from the United States in 2020. She continues to have a very successful career in the non-profit sector, where she began working 15 years ago. Without a plan to pursue it in a professional manner, Surabhi began paper quilling small projects as a way to wind down after work. She started to see the positive impact that her handmade cards, calendars, and stationary were having on the people she gifted them to and, after some convincing from her family and friends, she decided to turn it into a way to give back to her community.
Surabhi’s goal with Hastkala is to employ and/or support the education of immigrant refugee women who need assistance in their transition to Canada and in gaining financial independence. Having only begun operations in November 2020, Hastkala is at the dawn of their benevolent and flourishing social enterprise.
Surabhi became a part of the Centre for Social Innovation and found her mentor through the Pillar Nonprofit Network. Through this community of social entrepreneurs, Surabhi was able to gain access to resources that have helped her grow and plan for the future of her business.
Hastkala is rooted in Surabhi’s selflessness and her passion for giving. As her business grows, it will unquestionably benefit our country and the people that make it unique. You can find her beautiful products on Hastkala’s website, Facebook Page or Instagram.