About Us
My story of why…
Born and raised in the Czech Republic, but now calling the world my home for over a decade. Passionate about sports, animal welfare and travel I used to work in corporate for several years, having background in Consulting and Hospitality Industry, among others.
I love to explore new places and cultures and I had the opportunity to visit and live in Portugal. I was struck by the beauty of its sceneries, great wine and tasty treats but also confronted with the distressing reality of the high number of stray dogs and cats struggling to survive in poor conditions. Many of these animals lack proper care, suffer from health issues, infections, and food scarcity.
Witnessing such heartbreaking situations deeply affected me, but it also fuelled my determination to make a difference through my initiative. The challenges these animals face stem clearly from a lack of general awareness and rules or insufficient funds and attention.
There are situations which are positive and undoubtedly led me to create this project. It is these 3 stories that I hope you will enjoy and will inspire you in joining me on my journey.
One day I saw a kittten on a roof with her mom. In a very bad shape and could been about a month old. Her stomach was big and her fur very thin. She fought with other cats for food every day. I decided to bring them food myself and get her to get used to me. One day she fell from the roof and I could not find her and when I was again back by the window, another women found her and threw her back on the roof – just like that…So the next day I went to give them food and just grabbed her and brought her home.
I called her simply Kitty. Beginnings were tough, but we managed to get her out of the worse, several visits to the vet were needed and she slowly grew close and healthy. It has been 3,5 years since and she is happy and annoying as a cat can be. 😊
Few months passed and I was in Portugal again, behind the same window. I saw the Mom of Kitty but now with 3 other kittens. Their condition was not as bad and I decided to catch all of them again. As this was a week before my holiday was booked, I had to find a place for them to stay. So they spent a luxurious week in a Pet spa hotel – no kidding – where they were taken good care of. I managed to find them all their home family so this story ended well for all of them.
During the time in Portugal I also managed to catch and get these 4 cats castrated and medically checked. The feeling of when you release the cat after the castration puts a smile on my face as not only is the cat less prone to running around, but more importantly it protects the lives of unborn kitten, the mother herself and the environment. Their names are: Arnold, Mama, Bubble and Princess.
The journey to pre-owned fashion
Rather than a fashion guru I grew up being passionate about sports and travel. In my early 20´s I started to be more interested in modelling and photoshoots, however I always considered it as a hobby. I enjoyed the collaboration and brainstorming with colleagues about photography, the project itself with the aim to create unique memories. The limitless creativity.
My personal experience with shopping was and still is quite challenging also due to my height and shoe size. Very rarely happens that I can go to a store and buy shoes or clothes directly and often happens that I do not find the current fashion appealing. The trends change at speed of a light, clothes are manufactured endlessly with improper labour conditions, low material quality or short longevity. I usually bought what I found, rather than what I liked. It felt more like I am controlled and have no choice than take what is.
What I find appealing about shopping pre-owned? The freedom of choice and uniqueness. My first pre-owned bag was given to me by my friend. Then I started to get also pre-owned furniture and much of the items in my flat are thrifted. I feel full of joy to find an interesting piece which I like and adds to my own style.
Why Second-hand or Sustainable Shopping Matters?
Choosing second-hand or sustainable fashion is important because it reduces waste, lessens environmental impact, supports ethical practices, and promotes a more conscious and responsible approach to consumption. Learn more each benefit by clicking the arrow:
Reduced Waste
Buying second-hand clothes helps reuse and recycle garments, reducing landfill waste and slowing down fast fashion.
Cost Savings
Second-hand clothes are typically much cheaper than brand new items, allowing you to stretch your clothing budget further.
Ethical Considerations
Some people prefer second-hand shopping to avoid supporting fast fashion and labor exploitation. Buying used clothes aligns with ethical values by reducing demand for mass-produced garments.
Unique Finds
Second-hand shopping offers diverse clothing options, including vintage pieces, allowing you to express your unique style and stand out. Whether it’s retro, flare jeans, or heavy boots, the choices are endless.
Environmental Impact
Buying second-hand clothes reduces the demand for new clothing, conserving resources and minimizing environmental pollution linked to manufacturing.
Quality
Many second-hand clothes are of high quality and have already been through the initial wear and tear, so you can often find durable and long-lasting pieces at a fraction of the cost of new items.
Supporting Charity
As in my case, there are many second-hand stores that are run by charitable organizations, and proceeds from sales often go towards supporting important causes and community initiatives.
Experiment / Creativity
Experiment with different styles and trends without making a significant financial commitment. If you’re unsure about a particular style, buying second-hand lets you try it out without breaking the bank. Explore you inner creative soul and let yourself loose.
Confidence
Once you get into the vibe of shopping second-hand, you will feel like brand new. Each find which you love is success and boosts your confidence because is the new you and you feel great and proud in what you wear.
Freedom
The choice of styles and brands is limitless. Be curious and enjoy the freedom of your own choice.
Welcome to Passport to Kindness
Here we are, at Passport to Kindness – an initiative and a second hand clothing boutique, where you will find your unique style and at the same time change the lives of others.
“If we fail to treat animals with humanity, we cannot expect to treat well one another.”