MEET THE MUSE: ZAHVIRA
This week we were lucky enough to sit down with the beautiful Zahvira and chat to her about her sustainability journey while living in Bali.
Can you share with us a little on your experience growing up in Bali?
I did not grow up in Bali actually, I grew up in Surabaya - the second biggest city in Indonesia. I moved to Bali alone almost three years ago when I was 24, but since I was a young girl I have always dreamt of living in Bali. Surabaya is a typical big city where sadly nobody really cares about the environment or the issues it is facing. However, when I arrived in Bali my life changed a lot and I feel like I can express myself freely and be who I really want to be without judgement. Bali also has a great community of people living here who are actively living a sustainable lifestyle.
What/who was your inspiration in beginning to live a more sustainable lifestyle?
Growing up in a big city, I was super wasteful. However, I educated myself on environmental issues and Bali really helped me learn to become more sustainable.
What has your journey toward living a more zero-waste life been like?
If you can't jump, just make a small leap. Growing up in a big city, I was really into keeping up with trends and mindless buying. The small leap I decided to take was to stop buying from fast fashion brands, start buying secondhand items, and it has nearly been 3 years since purchasing brand new clothes.
We would love to know more about your dog rescue organisation… Can you share a little more about this?
It started from my passion of rescuing cats in Surabaya, but now I am a crazy dog lady! I decided to quit my job last year as a tattoo studio manager and pursue my passion of caring for dogs. I own a small business @happypuppybali and 20% of my earnings goes to dogs in need on the island.
What is it like living a sustainable, zero-waste life on the Island? (bulk store buying, composting, etc)?
I love it! It is easier than you think, trust me! I prefer to cook all my own food to avoid plastic containers when ordering food via Gojek. I buy everything that I need from Zero Waste Bali and use empty jars as containers. When I don’t feel like cooking I always drive to the restaurant myself and bring my own reusable container. I love ice coffee and bobba, so I have a reusable bottle when I order a takeaway drink. I also like to sew and upcycle my own clothes. I feel like this is a great way to stop mass production and it looks cool too.
What are your top tips on reducing waste?
Make a conscious effort to buy things that you need, not what you want. Also focusing on buying things that are good quality, so they have a longer lifespan.
What made you drawn to Forsoul?The ethics, for sure! I love how you turn your fabric scraps into hair accessories!
What is your favourite Marigold piece?
Honestly, everything! But the Sahara Red Mini Dress is my favourite item!
