In episode 202 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Emma Bukowski, founder of Noserider, on journey of becoming a surfer and starting her sustainable swimsuit brand in Bali.

Listen to more Disruptors fro GOOD episodes.

Emma talks about the challenges she faced and the passion that drove her to create her own designs.

Emma also discusses the importance of sustainability in her business and her goals for future certifications and scaling around the world.

She touches on the importance of community and brand focus, as well as the decision-making process behind choosing the brand name.

Emma also emphasizes the significance of building a community around the brand and how it has shaped the direction of Noserider.

Takeaways

• Follow your passion and pursue your dreams, start small, keep your full-time job and side-hustle in the beginning
• Seek out sustainable materials and practices to make a positive impact on the environment.
• Engage with your community and build relationships with other businesses to support and grow together.
• Building a community around a brand is essential for long-term success.
• Perseverance and passion are key to overcoming challenges and building a successful brand.

Chapters

Following the editing process, there may be discrepancies in the timing of the chapters.

00:00 Emma’s Journey to Becoming a Surfer

05:00 Starting Nose Rider in Bali

08:55 Designing the First Products

13:59 Switching to Sustainable Materials

17:48 Growing Nose Rider and Opening a Store

23:58 Tips for Entrepreneurs

The Noserider Story

Noserider Surf Club, founded by Emma in Bali in March 2022, embodies a sustainable and socially responsible approach to surfwear.

Originating from Emma’s long-held dream of being part of the surf community and living an active, beach-oriented lifestyle, the brand quickly evolved from a personal project into a vibrant community and brand.

The brand’s inception was marked by a surf retreat that not only celebrated the start of Emma’s venture but also set the tone for the community-centric ethos Noserider would embody.

Sustainability at the Core

The brand’s surf suits, made from 78% ECONYL® regenerated nylon and 22% elastane, exemplify this commitment. This choice ensures durability, resistance to harmful elements like chlorine and sun creams/oils, and provides UV protection.

Moreover, the production process, centered in Bali and carried out by a female-owned manufacturer, supports local craftsmanship and small batch production, reinforcing the brand’s community-focused values.

Eco-Conscious from Product to Packaging

Emma’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond the surf suits to every aspect of the brand’s operations.

Packaging choices, such as biodegradable bags, recycled card paper tags, and reusable bags, reflect a holistic approach to environmental responsibility.

This careful consideration of materials and production methods underscores Noserider’s mission to not only provide high-quality surfwear but also to contribute positively to the planet.

Empowering Community and Embracing Challenges

A key takeaway from Emma’s journey is the power of passion, perseverance, and community. Starting a business, especially one that challenges the norm by prioritizing sustainability, is fraught with obstacles.

Yet, Emma’s story is a testament to the impact of staying true to one’s values, engaging with the community, and building relationships that support mutual growth.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Emma has set her sights on scaling Noserider globally, aiming for future certifications that further validate the brand’s sustainable practices.

The importance of building a community around the brand remains a central theme, as it has significantly shaped Noserider’s direction and success.

Noserider Surf Club is more than a brand; it’s a movement towards a more sustainable and community-oriented surf culture.

Emma’s journey from a late-blooming surfer to the founder of a sustainable swimwear brand is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and make a positive impact on the world.