BY ANGELA FAIRHURST
In an era of fast fashion and disposable culture, sustainability is at the heart of two inspiring companies founded by women entrepreneurs. Susana Lie from Amsterdam and Ming-Ming Tung-Edelman from Seattle are transforming discarded materials into beautiful hand-crafted fashion pieces and accessories, proving that sustainability and social impact can go hand in hand.
SUSANA LIE: BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO VINTAGE TEXTILES
Born in Indonesia, Susana Lie discovered her passion for sewing at just six years old, learning from her mother, a professional seamstress. Despite financial constraints that prevented her from formal training, she honed her craft through dedication and experience, eventually making her way to Amsterdam, where she has lived for the past 22 years.
Through her Etsy store and her booth at the famous Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam, Lie transforms vintage blankets and second- hand textiles into upscale jackets and bags. Each piece is handmade, unique, and deeply rooted in her philosophy of zero waste. “I started making bags and clothes for myself, and now I have become a self- made woman,” she shares. “Designing and creating fashion is my passion, my hobby, my life. It truly makes me happy.”
Lie’s work goes beyond mere fashion creation; it’s a form of textile preservation. By repurposing materials like vintage wool blankets, she not only reduces textile waste but also brings history into contemporary fashion. The intricate details in her jackets and accessories reflect her deep appreciation for craftsmanship and sustainable design.
She employs various techniques like patchwork, embroidery, and appliqué to cover fabric imperfections, reinforce weak areas, or cover worn spots, while adding detail and unique design elements to make each piece one of a kind.
MING-MING TUNG-EDELMAN: EMPOWERING REFUGEE ARTISANS THROUGH UPCYCLING
Almost 6,000 miles away in Seattle, Ming-Ming Tung-Edelman is making waves in sustainable manufacturing through the Refugee Artisan Initiative (RAI). An immigrant from Taiwan, Tung-Edelman witnessed first-hand the power of sewing as a means of economic independence. Her grandmother raised a family as a home-based seamstress, inspiring Tung- Edelman’s lifelong admiration for the trade.
During her studies to obtain a certificate in fashion at the University of Washington in 2015, she learned about the significant environmental impact of fashion — namely how 85% of textiles end up in landfills. At the same time, she was introduced to volunteer work to support refugee women, who face an unemployment rate as high as 60%. In 2017, she founded RAI to provide refugee and immigrant women with artisan skills training, entrepreneurship opportunities, and a supportive community, while also addressing the issue of waste in the fashion industry.
At RAI, women repurpose discarded textiles into innovative, high-quality products while earning an equitable income. The initiative transforms materials like burlap coffee sacks from Starbucks into pouches, baskets, and totes that highlight the global origins of coffee. Billboard vinyls become durable, waterproof bags that promote recycling and environmental awareness. Deadstock fabrics from brands like Tommy Bahama are turned into home goods, table linens, and accessories, while outdoor gear materials from Outdoor Research are converted into multi-functional coats that double as sleeping bags for unhoused individuals.
“Sewing is a universal language,” Tung-Edelman explains. “It connects women of diverse backgrounds, giving them confidence, entrepreneurship, and a sense of purpose.” RAI’s mission goes beyond product creation. The project fosters economic independence for 37 women facing language barriers, childcare responsibilities, and transportation challenges. By providing at-home work and ongoing training, RAI ensures that each artisan has the tools to succeed. Additionally, the nonprofit diverts over 15,000 pounds of textiles from landfills annually.
“Seeing newcomers to our country — many escaping political persecution — using their skills to become financially independent while having people enjoy our high quality upcycled products gives me tremendous joy. Refugee Artisan Initiative is also pronounced ‘RAY,’ [because] bringing a ray of sunshine to these women is my ultimate reward,” said Tung-Edelman.
“Sustainability is not just about preserving the environment; it’s about creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.” As of February 2025, RAI continues to grow, having recently moved into a new 6,000-square-foot urban manufacturing space in Lake City, with plans to create an RAI Makerspace and Cultural Community Center, offering upcycling workshops and community events.
Visit www.refugeesarts.org to support RAI’s work, learn more about their mission, and shop their upcycled creations. For more on Susana Lie, visit her Etsy store at www.etsy.com/shop/SusanaLieCollection.
