Through her digital platform Repair Rebels, Dr. Monika Hauck is transforming textile and shoe repairs in Germany, promoting sustainability and local craftsmanship.
Dr. Monika Hauck, an entrepreneur and creative economist, is spearheading a transformative movement in the fashion industry with her digital platform, Repair Rebels. Established in 2021, Repair Rebels is designed to streamline textile and shoe repairs in Germany by offering a convenient and fashionable solution for consumers and businesses alike. This innovation has garnered significant recognition, including the German Ecodesign Award, highlighting its impact on sustainable fashion practices.
Dr. Hauck’s diverse background enriches her entrepreneurial endeavors. With a Ph.D. focused on Corporate Venturing and Open Innovation in the fashion sector, she combines expertise in fashion, innovation management, and sustainable development. Alongside founding Repair Rebels, she has also established the WHU Entrepreneurship Center to bolster startups and corporate innovation efforts in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Germany.
Her passion for fashion dates back to her youth in Lithuania, where she was introduced to sewing and garment repair at an early age. This foundation ignited her interest in sustainable fashion and later propelled her career, which included modeling for prominent international agencies and brands. In 2018, she became the Fashion Revolution City Ambassador in Düsseldorf, contributing to a global movement advocating for positive change in the fashion industry.
Repair Rebels addresses the emotional connection consumers have with their worn clothing and accessories. Dr. Hauck highlighted how the platform caters to both customers looking for reliable repair options and craftsmen skilled in restoring garments. Through this initiative, she aims to encourage a circular economy in fashion, in which products are reused and repurposed rather than discarded.
The conversation surrounding Repair Rebels delved into current trends in fashion consumption and emphasized the challenges that larger corporations face in shifting towards sustainable models. Dr. Hauck linked these challenges to the Lean StartUp concept, suggesting it could assist emerging circular entrepreneurs in navigating the complexities of sustainable business practices.
By effectively merging her personal experience, academic background, and dedication to local craftsmanship, Monika Hauck is not only redefining the repair process for clothing and accessories but is also aiming to reshape consumer attitudes towards sustainability in fashion.
Source: Noah Wire Services
