Little Rebels: Uruguayan dolls inspired by women who have changed the world
Once upon a time, a revolution began. Girls around the world decided to raise their voices and change all the things that had been wrong for so many years. They realized that they were strong and powerful. That they could write their own destiny. That anything was possible. They achieved amazing things that changed the world forever. Their lives will always be an inspiration for every girl in the planet. Their names will never be forgotten. We called them Little Rebels.
The YLAI Team interviewed Marjorie Spitalnik, YLAI 2016 Alum from Uruguay, to find out more information about her new project “Little Rebels”, how her YLAI experience impacted her worldview as an entrepreneur, her future plans for her business and some advice for the new YLAI cohort.
1. What motivated you/inspired you to create “Little Rebels” project?
Like most things I do in my life, my biggest inspiration is my daughter. Talking with her every day, I realized she is not always confident about what she can achieve. She has a few books that tell the stories of amazing women so I thought Little Rebels would be a good way to show her and all the kids around the world that they can achieve anything they set their mind into. I hope that Little Rebels acts as an inspirational and educational tool for all kids.
2. What were the most important skills and knowledge you learned from your YLAI Fellowship and how did you apply them in your business after you returned home?
I learned a lot from the time I shared with such talented entrepreneurs, but if I had to choose one or two skills, I would say they are resilience and collaboration. YLAI is more than just a program, it is the beginning of a new family. Once you participate in the program, you realize you are not alone in the process of entrepreneurship and you have a new network to share experiences, find constant support, and learn from each other.
3. How has your YLAI Fellowship impacted your worldview as an entrepreneur and your company? What are your plans now?
I learned so much from the fellowship and want to share that knowledge with others that may not have had an opportunity like YLAI. I have rebuilt the entire structure of my business and am now launching a new line of dolls, creating new communities of seamstresses, and partnerships that will allow me to help young girls get access to education.
4. What should YLAI Alumni and young entrepreneurs keep in mind when they develop new products or work on new projects?
They should make sure that the market needs what they are creating. One big question they should answer is the WHY behind their idea, because without it, it will be hard for a product or service to survive. They should also strive to have more than monetary goals for their business.
5. What would you say or recommend to our new YLAI cohort?
Embrace every opportunity you get during the fellowship; talk to everyone, share your ideas, be supportive of the other Fellows, and keep an open mind about everything. You may feel that your City Hub isn’t exciting or your placement isn’t perfect, but trust me, there is always something you can learn and something you can share with others. Make the most of your fellowship and remember to have fun!
Find more about Little Rebels here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rebel-dolls-for-revolutionary-kids#/
