Barbara Engo-Aranha
I first moved to HK for work in 1998 and fell in awe of Asia. My husband and I moved back to Hong Kong with our two daughters in 2009 and we have called HK home since.
Tell us a bit about your DTM Journey
Bringing this project to this stage has taken us almost 3 years, that is a long time by any measure. There have challenges along the way but I look at what we have accomplished and feel nothing but pride and excitement at what comes next.
For me, DTM is about streamlining resource-sharing. We limit waste by diverting unwanted products to those who can still find a use for them. DTM not only brings together consumers but also charities and donors. My vision is for the company to become the go-to platform for people to trade, share insights and have impact in their household and community.
I love working with Erin and Andrea. Being part of this team has taught me to take risks, to listen, to be open to change and work together to bring out the best solution and ideas.
The last thing I bought 2nd-Hand and Loved
An antique elephant chair that I bought from a couple that was selling off the contents of their storage room in Aberdeen. It's way too big and I haven’t quite figured out how to make it super comfy but I find the carving details beautiful.
I would never Throw Away
I love books and one I cherish, is a copy of The Prophet given to me by my friend Chris more than 25 years ago.
The best bit of advice I ever received
Seek a mentor and in turn be a mentor to someone else. We each hold a wealth of knowledge from our lived experiences so share it.
Andrea Springmann
With more than 20 years’ experience in the tourism and destination management sector as consultant and lecturer, I'm an expert in bringing local communities and other stakeholders together to make a given location the best that it can be for residents and tourists alike and develop it further together in terms of infrastructure and products related to sustainability and get forces together for marketing & sales activities.
What moved me to start DTM with Erin and Barbara?
We wanted to work together in a project that centred around sustainable living in a meaningful way. Another motivation was for me as well to create something with a direct and real impact in everybody’s daily life. I have consulted and lectured related to ESG and Sustainability. I’m fascinated how destinations like Copenhagen or Amsterdam are encouraging and supporting their second hand practices and solutions in a circular economy. Something each destination should do, highlighting the circular economy initiatives to create a more resilient and sustainable city.
So far my learning with DTM
I think the three of us have an effective collaboration which is further strengthened by our friendship. Today’s complex challenges require a team to navigate ambiguity, unearth bold ideas and embrace new ways of working. It takes a diverse team with different perspectives to do that, which is exactly what we are.
The last thing I bought 2nd Hand and Loved
A black summer dress and matching jacket from Greenladies in Wan Chai.
An object I would never Throw Away
My travel relics which I got throughout my road trips in particular my sculptures and fabrics.
The best bit of advices I ever received
There is no silver bullet solution to a question. We need to have diverse approaches to solutions, and be open-minded about how we find them.
And my other advice which I keep in my life philosophy whenever it comes to physical or professional challenges. It's when you push your limits that the magic happens. You could break through boundaries you had made for yourself. It is about getting outside of the box and being comfortable being uncomfortable.
Erin Kim
I am a Parsons-trained fashion designer and I have spent the last 17 years co-heading a sustainable fashion and lifestyle brand called Airess.
What moved me to start DTM with Andrea and Barbara?
I really wanted to join forces with Andrea and Barbara to create an impactful business that worked to provide solutions for the environment. Andrea always motivates me and others around her to action with her enthusiasm and her ability to get things done. She is an amazing connector of people and ideas. Barbara is a natural leader who is highly organized and decisive by nature. People want to listen to her.
So far my learning with DTM
It’s been amazing to work with partners with totally different skill sets than my own. It allows each of us to naturally take charge of areas we are strongest in. As I get older, I realize that I am my best when I go more deep into areas that I love, rather than trying to do a little bit of everything.
The last thing I bought 2nd Hand and Loved
A pair of vintage Levi’s jeans
An object I would never throw away
There are too many to choose from but I would have to say that I would never throw away my notebooks where I collect all my inspirations, thoughts, and sketches. They go wherever I go.
The best bit of advice I ever received
To give my undivided attention to one thing at a time.
