Meet David Radparvar of Hip Ethical Products Brand Holstee

David Radparvar and his brother Mike set up the ethical products brand Holstee in 2009 after being inspired by sustainable pioneers Patagonia and the work of micro-lending guru Mohammed Yunus. Putting these two influences together the Radparvar brothers developed their business model to create sustainable fashion accessories while lending 10% of their sales, via Kiva.org, to the people around the world who need it most.

David and Mike, with their third partner Fabian, launched their business with the uniquely styled Holstee Tee made from 100% recycled fabric and featuring the unique holster pocket on the side. The t-shirt along with the Holstee FIN quickly became a hipster favourites and Holstee, with it's positive messaging and funky products, quickly became a super cool ethical brand. Their latest product success is The Recycled Wallet made from old newspapers.

David talks to Change Makers about the importance of micro-lending, reducing his meat consumption and skateboarding to work.

Planet Green: How did you get into this line of work?

David Radparvar: Simply enough it started with the desire to bring better functional design to a t-shirt.

PG: When did the green bug strike?

DR: When we decided to work full time on Holstee we took a step back and looked at how we wanted to produce our goods. If my brother Mike and I were really going to be vesting ourselves fully into Holstee we wanted it to be something we were proud of, not just in terms of design but proud of how it was made. At the time we couldn't find a sustainably made t-shirt with the right fit or design so we decided to make our own - after going to production you realise how hard it is to produce something sustainable from selecting the right fabric to packaging, at the same time you realise its importance even more.

PG: Who is your green hero?

I love the values behind brands like Patagonia, Dr. Bronners, Freitag, and Glee Gum - the founders of each have really become an inspiration. After hearing about the work of Mohammed Yunus and micro-lending, we decided to lend 10% of all sales at Holstee through Kiva.org for micro-lending - the concept of sharing any success we have with those who need it most is simple and just clicked for us. We have been really fortunate to get the help of so many people, and are glad to be able to pay that positive energy forward.

PG: What is your ultimate green goal?

Ultimately I want to educate people about conscious consumerism. If you don't really need something - don't buy it. If you have something try and fix it before replacing it, or try getting it second hand. If you need to buy something new, take the time to find something that you will cherish and hopefully be able to pass down to your children. Buy less so you can afford to spend more on quality, and things that are produced with respect for the planet and people in it.

PG: What is your motivation?

I am motivated by just about everything. By nature, by my friends, my family and fans of Holstee. Everything that is beautiful is a reminder that the world should remain beautiful, and everything that has gone is a reminder that we need to change fast.

PG: What is most important to you, ecologically speaking?

Tough question…economic inequality ranks pretty high on the list. There is just such a disparity in the way people live on this planet. It's so extreme it changes the perspective on everything if you take a minute to think about it.

PG: What is the most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is leaving the office. There's always so many things going on, and exciting projects to work on, it's hard to leave.

PG: What is the most rewarding?

The most rewarding part is getting letters from happy customers. It may sound clichéd, but it's really the best feeling. We have gotten so many lovely letters from people who say our Manifesto or products have really changed they way they think - for me this is what it's all about.

PG: Of the people you have worked with, who impresses you most?

My brother. We are partners and without him we would never have made it this far - in fact we would have never started. His confidence and optimism keeps us driving forward at full speed.

PG: What green thing do you do everyday?

I bike or skateboard to work everyday. I love starting the day with some fresh air and a bit of exercise.

PG: What do you wish you could do?

Travel in a pirate style sailboat across the ocean with a crew made up of the most inspiring people I have met in the last 25 years.

PG: What is your biggest eco-sin?

While I have really cut down on my meat consumption, I could do better. I know about the ecological benefits of being a vegetarian I just haven't been able to cut meat out of my life just yet.

PG: If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?

For starters I would get rid of high-fructose corn syrup.

PG: What is your best green advice?

Do what's in your heart. Don

Change Makers is series of interviews, with people famous and obscure, who are creating a more sustainable world through their work. Meet more Change Makers here.