Gandys flip-flops

Rob and Paul Forkan, the entrepreneurs behind Gandys flip-flops, have created a footwear brand with a conscious. After being orphaned in the 2004 tsunami aged only 13 and 11, the brothers decided to launch a flip-flop line to give back to areas affected. Gandys donates 10% of its profits to projects abroad through their ‘Orphans for Orphans’ initiative, which helps to provide education and health care for children in need. Through this initiative the brothers have provided a teacher for an entire community of children in Goa, and enough school supplies for over one hundred children. They also plan to open a children’s home in Goa by 2014, in order to mark the tragedy’s ten year anniversary. Although the brothers have focussed on India first, due to them travelling the region extensively, they hope to start up similar projects all over the world. This coming June the brand will embark on a huge campaign to find 230,000 brand ambassadors. Launching in Selfridges, Rob had this to say on what they are trying to achieve: “Usually brands like making things exclusive but Gandys is all about creating a community and spreading our message. So we want 230,000 people to become Gandys brand ambassadors! We’ve got the help of some celebrities to kick off the campaign, but then it’s up to everyone who believes in what we do to make the movement grow.” The classic flip-flops are available in a variety of colours and come complete with a woven Y strap. Colours available include red, blue, neon green and white. The brand have also launched the ‘Printz’ collection, which feature animal and camouflage prints that wrap around the sides, for those that are looking for an on trend alternative. Gandys not only have created a great product but a philanthropic movement, overcoming personal tragedy to help many less fortunate around the world. They are definitely worthy of your investment. The collection is available at ASOS, Selfridges, House of Fraser, Topman and gandysflipflops.com.

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