Fourth Annual Design for Freedom Summit at Grace Farms
On Thursday, March 27th, I had the honor of joining the 2025 Design for Freedom Summit at Grace Farms — a powerful gathering of leaders from architecture, engineering, construction, tech, government, manufacturing, non-profits, real estate, and academia. Together, we explored how to build a world where supply chains are free from slavery and rooted in dignity and transparency.
Throughout the day, I listened to deeply moving conversations among experts and activists, including a discussion between Amar Lal, a child labor survivor, child rights lawyer, and activist, and Grace Forrest, the founding director of Walk Free. Their dialogue reminded us that survivors and communities hold the wisdom and the strength to end their own exploitation — they simply need to be supported and trusted to lead.
The panels that followed offered rich insight into the latest innovations in ethical design and supply chain transparency. Panelists asked vital questions like, “How do we move beyond spreadsheets, emails, and questionnaires that distance us from the real conditions behind our materials?” They shared ideas, resources, and tools to help us all identify forced labor, pursue ethical decarbonization, and design circular systems that respect both people and planet.
During the afternoon, I was grateful to lead a breakout session on the power of social entrepreneurship alongside Adam Thatcher, CEO and Co-Founder of Grace Farms Tea & Coffee. I shared my own journey and spoke about how economic empowerment — especially for women — can be a powerful force for change when it honors people, the planet, and cultural heritage. I also introduced the audience to our TransparaTrade initiative and showcased our YogaMaty prototype — a product with a 100% traceable supply chain. I wanted to show what’s possible when we design with transparency and compassion at every step.
As Sharon Prince, the CEO and Founder of Grace Farms, said so beautifully, “Every building tells a story of humanity — either of dignity or exploitation.” I believe the same is true for everything we consume, from the clothes we wear to the food we eat.
I left Grace Farms feeling deeply inspired by the vision, courage, and collaboration I witnessed that day. Together, we are revealing the hidden stories behind our products and reimagining supply chains as pathways to dignity. This work continues — and I’m grateful to walk this necessary journey with so many committed hearts and hands.
Thank you for joining us on this necessary journey.
Nasreen Sheikh
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