Clavia self-identifies as a woman, Latina, immigrant and entrepreneur. Building her life in British Columbia, Clavia founded Up Pet, a small business creating upcycled, sustainable and eco-friendly pet clothing. Newcomers face unique additional challenges, like the language barriers Clavia faced, and often starting a business is done out of necessity. This is why we believe it’s important to share your stories in your words. Not all stories sound the same.

Video Description

In this video Clavia Castilhos shares some of her story. The scene opens with Clavia walking to her couch holding a mug. She sits down, takes a sip of her drink placing the mug on the coffee table in front, and begins to write in her notebook. Clavia reads aloud as she writes. Clavia speaks in Portuguese, English subtitles appear on the bottom of the screen. The English transcript is available in text format. Images complimenting her story appear family photographs, walking outside, working, sewing, selecting textiles, taking the train, meeting a dog and person, Up Pet website, working, smiling. In the final scene text overlay appears with a link to sbbc.ca to learn more.

Each person involved in production self-identifies as a member of an equity-deserving group related to the story being told. Clavia’s story was amplified by a team of creatives and shaped by a team of consultants who identify as women, entrepreneurs immigrants, newcomers and/or Indigenous, Black and People of Colour (IBPOC). We wanted to create a powerful, culturally-nuanced, and authentic video that resonates with underrepresented small business owners. Authentic inclusion extends beyond the story in front of the lens, it must be considered at every stage of the process. Following the mantra nothing about us, without us.

Crew Involved