TOMS Collection Inspired By Tragedy

By P. Joseph

Blake Mycoskie, the founder of footwear company TOMS, known for its humanitarian efforts, has spoken about the inspiration behind his 2011 Spring Collection.

Underpinning the Collection, which was recently unveiled in New York, is the memory of photojournalist and human right’s activist Dan Eldon, who was killed in Somalia aged just 23.

Four styles from the Spring Collection feature direct prints of Eldon’s artwork on canvas. These include his well-worn passport thumbprint; his distinctive painted faces, playful elephant illustrations, and his motto ‘The Journey is the Destination.’

“I really hope this collection inspires people to follow their creative dreams and use their talents to become a creative activist like Dan – transforming bold ideas into positive action,” Mr Mycoskie told Superyachts.com.

Mycoskie created the company in 2006 on the principle that for each pair of shoes sold, he’d donate a pair to children in developing countries

“I've been on numerous trips to Argentina and Africa, meeting the children we are providing for through our work at TOMS, he added.

“I can tell you that there is no greater feeling than seeing a child's smile and joy when receiving a pair of new shoes.

“Even better is being able to return time and time again with new sizes as the kids grow out of their shoes.”

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By P. Joseph