Keeley's Socks 4 Sustainability

Written By Keeley McMahon

I first became interested in sustainability when I was in Year 4 and we were making our own David Attenborough documentaries and I did mine on the amazon rainforest. I remember being so curious and interested in the real-world issues and the beautiful wildlife that were at stake that I wanted to help our world be more sustainable. Since then, I’ve always wanted to do something to make a difference, and taking part in the Mansau BorneoExpedition: 2 Weeks feels like a real opportunity to turn that passion into action and contribute to something meaningful.

I always have wanted to help the environment and to do something to make a change, and everyone loves novelty socks (especially me) and I thought why not combine the two.

Keeley’s Fundraising Efforts

I’m all about comfortable and fun socks and I decided that they were something that everyone could enjoy and use. I thought that they would be a good way to kickstart my fundraising journey and spread the love of socks.

Lessons learnt:

The most surprising thing has been how much people wanted to help and support the environment and how their support has motivated me to keep sharing my business.

Spreading the word:

I have shared my business through my mum’s social media, market stalls and talking to people and friends about my business.

I have made flyers and business cards to spread the word around and to get as many people as possible to do a small thing that has a big impact.

The most exciting moment has been seeing all the people support me and want to make a difference in our world has been the most exciting moment. I really enjoyed talking to people about my upcoming adventure and the reason I wanted to help the environment.

Overcoming Challenges

Fundraising can have its fair share of ups and downs. It’s a huge learning experience and each setback is an opportunity to pivot and grow. Throughout your fundraising journey, you’ll sometimes have to adapt and overcome challenges.

Promoting and reaching a wider audience:

There are challenges for most small businesses but for me as a young person creating a small business with limited resources I have found it difficult to be noticed on a larger scale to help my sales. Relying on word of mouth in this day and age isn’t easy.

As I am not able to have access to social media, my mum has helped with setting up an Instagram page and manages this on my behalf but this is more so that my supporters can follow my journey as opposed to advertising. As far as advertising is concerned, I have been directly contacting local markets and events to try and get in with a stall – I have also been involved in some community open days which has definitely helped. There has been great support from the local community and when I am talking to people about what I am doing they are very willing to help where they can. I am currently thinking of new ways to expand on my advertising by thinking outside the box a little so watch this space!

Staying motivated when things are difficult:

What motivates me is probably my end goal which is my trip. I think about why I am doing this and what I have to look forward to in the future if I keep going and push through. Also, sometimes sales go down and I have to find new ways to advertise for the sales to go back up.

Highlights and Achievements

The fundraising journey offers far more than just raising money. It helps students develop valuable life skills, build confidence, and become more independent. Keeley’s journey is a powerful testament to that.

Community Support:

Support has been huge and a lot of people have been excited for me and wanted to be a part of my journey in fundraising. People have wanted to support me because my reason for fundraising is helping nature and they want to make a small difference.

Learning Skills for Life:

I’ve learnt better social skills and gained more confidence from interacting with people and talking about my fundraising journey. I’ve also learnt to problem solve, and become good at using creative ways to word around about my business.

Building Confidence:

Probably my overall confidence when it comes to talking to people and getting involved in the community when it comes to market stalls and open days. I have really improved in my ability to be independent and take some charge over what I’m doing.

Advice for Future Fundraisers

Focus on what you’re passionate about:

Pick something that you are passionate about and fundraise with a product that people can use in everyday life!

Stay open to new experiences:

I would say be more open to trying things outside your comfort zone when doing things such as market stalls and talking to people. I have only done that a couple times as I needed some courage to do it. Also I would approach things with a more positive mindset.