Simmi Sen: The Teen Entrepreneur Weaving Dreams and Empowering Lives

In the bustling city of Vancouver, Washington, a remarkable young woman is making waves in the fashion industry while changing lives across continents. Meet Simmi Sen, the high school senior behind Tints Streetwear, a socially conscious clothing brand that’s redefining what it means to be stylish and impactful.

A Childhood Steeped in Culture and Compassion

Born and raised in Vancouver, Simmi’s journey began with a deep connection to her family’s roots in India and Bangladesh. Regular visits to Kolkata, India, exposed her to a vibrant tapestry of traditions and the harsh realities faced by many women in the region. These early experiences planted the seeds of compassion that would later blossom into a powerful force for change.

“From a young age, I was moved by the rich cultures of India and Bangladesh,” Simmi reflects. “But I also saw the challenges many women faced, trapped in cycles of poverty. I knew I had to do something to help.”

Education: The Spark That Ignited a Vision

Simmi’s passion for creativity and social awareness flourished in her academic pursuits. Her English teacher, Dr. Bev Questad, became a mentor and catalyst for her future endeavors. Together, they embarked on a life-changing trip to Bangladesh in the summer of 2018, volunteering with the Distressed Children & Infants International (DCI) organization.

This experience teaching English to orphaned girls left an indelible mark on Simmi’s heart. “Seeing the lack of opportunities available to these young girls was eye-opening,” she shares. “I realized that education and skills training could be powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty.”

From Classroom to Global Impact

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Simmi’s determination only grew stronger. She set up virtual classrooms, ensuring that the girls in Bangladesh could continue their education remotely. This act of perseverance became the springboard for Tints Streetwear.

“I envisioned a brand that could marry my love for fashion with my desire to make a difference,” Simmi explains. “Each Tints garment tells a story of empowerment and hope.”

Tints Streetwear: Fashion with a Purpose

Tints isn’t just about trendy clothes; it’s a platform for change. The brand provides vocational and educational training to women in Bangladesh and India, helping them gain valuable skills and financial independence. Every piece is a work of art, embroidered in Bangladesh and handcrafted in Kolkata, bridging traditional craftsmanship with modern design.

Simmi’s commitment to sustainability is woven into every fiber of Tints. “We use organic, eco-friendly, and biodegradable materials,” she proudly states. “It’s about respecting our artisans and our planet.”

A Growing Movement

Simmi’s innovative approach has caught the attention of major players. With seed funding and mentorship from Taco Bell and Disney Dreamers, Tints has expanded its reach. Today, you can find Tints clothing in high-end boutiques across Portland, Los Angeles, New York City, Seattle, and San Francisco.

But Simmi didn’t stop there. Recognizing the need for ongoing support, she founded the nonprofit Rise to Independence in collaboration with Heroes for All (HFA). This initiative provides disadvantaged women with vocational training, access to technology, and essential resources.

Words of Wisdom

To aspiring changemakers, Simmi offers this advice: “We must take action with self-belief and conviction and nurture it with extreme perseverance. When we are relentless about the impact that we desire to make, our pathway to reach it is uncovered, and challenges are overcome.”

A Bright Future Ahead

As Simmi prepares for the next chapter of her life beyond high school, her impact continues to grow. Through Tints Streetwear and her nonprofit work, she’s lighting the way for a brighter, more equitable future. “Making an impact has been the most rewarding experience in my life,” Simmi reflects. Her journey proves that age is no barrier to creating meaningful change. With passion, perseverance, and a commitment to empowering others, Simmi Sen is weaving a tapestry of hope, one stitch at a time.

Bidisha Ghosh, Staff Reporter