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Ali VanOverbeke
Founder at Genusee - the first circular economy eyewear Made in Flint, MI from upcycled plastic water bottles
Professional Background
Ali Rose VanOverbeke is a dynamic entrepreneur and visionary leader in the realm of sustainable fashion. As the founder of Genusee, she has established the first circular economy eyewear brand in Flint, Michigan, harnessing the power of recycled materials to create stylish and environmentally responsible eyewear. Her dedication to transforming local resources into high-quality products reflects not only her commitment to sustainability but also her passion for empowering the Flint community, turning challenges into opportunities.
Prior to launching Genusee, Ali spent ten fruitful years honing her expertise in the fashion industry, with roles spanning design, branding, marketing, and styling. Her remarkable career has included notable positions at esteemed brands such as Lane Bryant, Joe Fresh, and Nordstrom. Driven by a desire to make a positive impact beyond the fashion world, she engaged in various artistic and community-focused projects, collaborating with organizations like the Living Arts Center in Detroit and My Choices Foundation in India.
Regionally rooted in Detroit, Ali's life took a transformative turn when she responded to the urgent needs during the Flint Water Crisis. After volunteering with the American Red Cross, she recognized the community's plight and made the impactful decision to relocate to Flint. This dedication to social and environmental justice informs every aspect of her work, exemplifying the belief that fashion can be a powerful tool for change.
Education and Achievements
Ali Rose VanOverbeke's educational background lays a solid foundation for her career in fashion and design. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Fashion/Apparel Design from the Parsons School of Design, a leading institution recognized for cultivating talented designers. Additionally, she pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in General Studies at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, broadening her horizons and enriching her perspective in the industry.
Her academic achievements at Parsons School of Design included a Fashion Designer Research Fellowship, where she engaged extensively in the exploration of innovative concepts in the fashion sector. Ali's education complemented her early formative experiences at Roeper School, which fostered her creative abilities and critical thinking. Through her rigorous schooling, Ali developed the skills necessary to combine artistry and functionality in her fashion endeavors.
In May 2018, Ali successfully launched Genusee via a Kickstarter campaign, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to positive social change. Her groundbreaking work in sustainable eyewear manufacturing has garnered significant media attention, being featured on ABC World News Tonight with David Muir and in Katie Couric Media. In addition, Vogue recognized Genusee as one of the companies positively changing the landscape of American fashion, acknowledging Ali's innovative approach to sustainability and social enterprise.
Contributions to the Community
Genusee has upcycled more than 1.80 tonnes of single-use plastic water bottles, driving the circular economy forward while combating plastic waste. The brand has provided meaningful employment opportunities in Flint by creating seven jobs and ensuring that over 70% of total wages, amounting to more than $120,000, go directly to local workers. Besides economic contributions, Ali is equally committed to giving back to the community through philanthropic endeavors, donating almost $10,000 to local non-profits such as The Flint Kids Fund, The Flint Women & Girls Fund, and Fair Action Fight.
Speakership and Advocacy
A respected voice in the realms of sustainability and fashion, Ali has participated in numerous panels and events that address pressing issues in these fields. Her speaking engagements have included prestigious platforms like the United Nations, CFDA Education Summit, Sustainable Brands, and Polimoda. She has also engaged with youth organizations such as BBYO, where her advocacy highlights the connection between fashion, culture, and sustainable practices, inspiring a new generation of environmentally conscious designers and consumers.
Ali Rose VanOverbeke is not only transforming the eyewear industry but also redefining how communities can collaborate to forge a sustainable future. Her journey reflects a distinctive blend of creativity, community engagement, and passion for environmental stewardship. As the founder and CEO of Genusee, Ali stands at the forefront of a movement that marries fashion excellence with social responsibility, ultimately changing lives in Flint, Michigan, and beyond.
