Today we’d like to introduce you to Delwin Tan.
Hi Delwin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 2020, I found myself at a crossroads with my architecture career, yearning for a change that would break me free from the confines of a conventional 9-to-5 job. Motivated by a desire to forge my own path, I began to explore new avenues. Meanwhile, Jimmy, though engaged in a marketing role, was fully supportive of my aspirations.
Together, we embarked on a journey of exploration, engaging in countless brainstorming sessions and consulting with friends and family. We sifted through numerous ideas, all with the aim of creating a venture that would serve and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community—a community we are passionately part of. Despite enjoying a strong support network ourselves, we were acutely aware of the challenges and discrimination faced by many within our community, from all corners of society.
This awareness fueled our determination to establish a brand that not only empowers the LGBTQ+ community but also raises awareness about the struggles we face, promoting pride and self-acceptance. Thus, in the waning months of 2020, Proud Zebra was conceived—a beacon of empowerment and awareness for the LGBTQ+ community.
Today, our journey has brought us to Vancouver, Canada, where we are embarking on a new chapter in our lives and the life of Proud Zebra. Our efforts have seen us participate in over 10 pride markets across British Columbia yearly, forge wholesale partnerships with more than 25 gift shops throughout North America, and collaborate with various organizations on corporate designs and orders. As we continue to expand, we remain excited and optimistic about the future directions Proud Zebra can take.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Navigating the journey of running a business alongside your life partner hasn’t been without its challenges. Countless debates over business decisions have inevitably encroached upon our personal lives, blurring the lines between our professional and personal relationships.
The commitment to our business was so encompassing that we occasionally lost sight of our primary identity as life partners. There began a conscious effort to draw the line as to where work ended and our personal life began, to preserve the sanctity of our relationship.
Furthermore, our living space transformed into a makeshift storage for the business, which gradually eroded the warm, inviting essence of our home. This adaptation was a stark reminder of the sacrifices and adjustments needed to nurture a growing business, underscoring the fact that the path to success is rarely straightforward.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Proud Zebra?
At Proud Zebra, we understand the complexities and nuances of queer identity and the journey that comes with embracing one’s true self. We strive to create products that are not just subtly stylish but also carry deep significance for both the individual and the broader LGBTQ+ community.
Our commitment goes beyond crafting items with mere aesthetic appeal; we aim to encapsulate the essence of thoughtful design, steering clear of the simplistic approach of adorning merchandise with rainbow flags. Our dedication to representing the diverse spectrum of pride flag identities fuels our mission to offer inclusivity through each uniquely designed and classy product we bring to the community.
Every item in our collection is a manifestation of original creativity, born from our own design pursuits. We proudly present a range of products, including enamel pins that celebrate over 35 different pride flag identities, along with a curated selection of lanyards, shoelaces, lace charms, bag charms, and sticker sheets, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail and deep respect for our community.
In choosing Proud Zebra, you’re not just supporting a queer-owned small business; you’re investing in a brand that profoundly cares for the larger LGBTQ+ community. A portion of our profits is dedicated to various LGBTQ+ charities, ensuring that your support extends beyond our products to make a tangible difference in the lives of others within our community. We are a brand that champions pride all year round, and we take immense pride in our commitment to both celebrating and supporting our community in every way we can.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Looking ahead to the next 5 to 10 years, we envision a future where the widespread acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community becomes a universal norm. Our aspiration is for a world where individuals are recognized and respected for their humanity, irrespective of their gender identity or who they love. It’s a future where the distinctions that currently divide us fade into insignificance, and the essence of each person’s character and contributions take precedence.
Furthermore, we yearn for a time when safety and security are guaranteed for every member of our community, no matter where they are. A future where fear and apprehension are replaced by a sense of belonging and acceptance, allowing everyone to live openly and authentically without concern for their well-being. It is our hope that this inclusive and safe environment will not only be the aspiration of the LGBTQ+ community but will be embraced and advocated for by people and organizations worldwide, fostering a truly inclusive society.
Pricing:
- $15 – Enamel Pins
- $18 – Shoelaces
- $22 – Lace Charms
- $49 – Bag Charms
Contact Info:
- Website: www.proudzebra.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/proud.zebra
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/proudzebra
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/company/proud-zebra
