An eco-fashion brand set up with just £200 by two surfing brothers has gained national recognition in the UK this week by reaching the finals of the national ‘Enterprising Young Brits’ competition run by Enterprise UK, a government organisation promoting entrepreneurship in young people.
Rapanui was founded by Rob and Martin Drake-Knight (25) and (23), who combined their degrees in business and renewable energy to create a sustainable clothing brand; making clothes out of organic natural fabrics in a Fair-wear Foundation certified wind powered factory, which are then sold through their online store. The brand has also made custom eco-clothing for Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream and The Marine Conservation Society.
The Enterprising Young Brits competition, which is run by Enterprise UK in partnership with the Daily Mail newspaper, was held at the prestigious Institute of Directors in Pall Mall and presented by Lord Mandelson, a long way from the beaches of the Isle of Wight.
As the youngest company in their category the brothers are optimistic about their runners up position. The business has recently recruited 2 more staff which takes their total to 8 full time staff, 7 of which are 18 to 25.
Martin said “We started our company with £200 and we hope that winning this award gives other young people the assurance that anyone can succeed as an entrepreneur, whether you wear flip flops or a suit.”
The liveeco team
