Visionary Beginnings
At Selai, our journey is rooted in innovation and driven by a passion for positive change in the fashion industry. Founded in September 2022 by Ahmed Towsif, Selai emerged from humble beginnings as a visionary university project at Queen’s University, Canada, in 2021. Ahmed’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination led him to pursue his dreams through Ontario Tech University’s Brilliant Catalyst program. Fueled by a desire to make a meaningful impact, Ahmed’s journey to Canada on a startup visa epitomizes our commitment to transforming aspirations into reality.
A Catalyst for Change
The spark of inspiration that ignited Selai came when Ahmed faced the challenge of sourcing ethically made T-shirts for his own e-commerce venture. Frustrated by the lack of transparency and sustainability in the fashion industry, Ahmed saw an opportunity to revolutionize the way fashion is created, sourced, and enjoyed. Thus, Selai was born—a platform that seamlessly blends transparency, reliability, and affordability, bridging the gap between creators and conscientious consumers.
At Selai, we envision a world where fashion is not just a reflection of style, but also a beacon of ethical consciousness and environmental responsibility. Our company is dedicated to revolutionizing the fashion industry by leading the way in ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Our vision is rooted in three core principles:
We are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards throughout every facet of our operations. From sourcing materials to crafting garments, we prioritize the welfare and dignity of every individual involved in our supply chain. We forge partnerships with artisans, craftsmen, and workers who share our values of fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for human rights.
We embrace innovation as a powerful tool to shape a better future for both fashion and the planet. Our design and manufacturing processes are driven by a deep respect for nature and a commitment to minimizing our ecological footprint. By utilizing cutting-edge sustainable materials, minimizing waste, and employing energy-efficient practices, we aim to leave a positive legacy for generations to come.
We believe that fashion should do more than adorn; it should inspire and create positive change. Our creations blend aesthetics with purpose, telling stories that resonate with our customers’ values. By wearing our garments, individuals become advocates for ethical and sustainable practices, sparking conversations and influencing a broader cultural shift.
We are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards throughout every facet of our operations. From sourcing materials to crafting garments, we prioritize the welfare and dignity of every individual involved in our supply chain. We forge partnerships with manufacturers who share our values of fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for human rights.
We embrace innovation as a powerful tool to shape a better future for both fashion and the planet. Our design and manufacturing processes are driven by a deep respect for nature and a commitment to minimizing our ecological footprint. By utilizing cutting-edge sustainable materials, minimizing waste, and employing energy-efficient practices, we aim to leave a positive legacy for generations to come.
We believe that fashion should do more than adorn; it should inspire and create positive change. Our creations blend aesthetics with purpose, telling stories that resonate with our customers' values. By wearing our garments, individuals become advocates for ethical and sustainable practices, sparking conversations and influencing a broader cultural shift.
Through our relentless pursuit of these principles, we strive to become a global leader in ethical and sustainable fashion manufacturing. We aspire to set new industry standards, inspiring other companies to follow suit. Our dedication to quality, transparency, and integrity guides every decision we make, ensuring that we remain steadfast on our journey toward a more compassionate and environmentally conscious world.
Join us at Selai as we transform fashion from a mere product into a catalyst for positive change, both in how we adorn ourselves and how we impact the world around us. Together, we can shape a future where style, ethics, and sustainability seamlessly coexist, creating a harmonious and beautiful world for all.
At Selai, our mission is to revolutionize the fashion industry by seamlessly blending style and ethics through sustainable manufacturing practices. We are dedicated to creating clothing that not only looks good but also feels good, both for the individuals who wear our creations and the planet we all share.
Our commitment lies in fostering a new era of fashion that celebrates conscientious choices. We believe in transparency, accountability, and innovation. Every step we take, from sourcing materials to production, distribution, and beyond, is guided by our unwavering dedication to ethical and sustainable principles.
Sustainable sourcing is the cornerstone of Selai’s commitment to ethical and environmentally responsible fashion. We recognize the immense impact that the fashion industry can have on the planet, which is why we go to great lengths to ensure that every material we use meets the highest standards of sustainability. Our dedication to sustainable sourcing extends beyond simply selecting eco-friendly fabrics; we also prioritize transparency and traceability throughout our entire supply chain.
At Selai, we believe in forging meaningful partnerships with suppliers who share our values and are equally committed to ethical and sustainable practices. From organic cotton farmers to small-scale artisans crafting natural dyes, we work closely with producers who prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility. By choosing Selai, you’re not just purchasing a garment—you’re supporting a network of individuals and communities dedicated to creating positive change in the fashion industry.
Craftsmanship and quality are the hallmarks of every garment we create at Selai. We believe that true beauty lies in the details, which is why we’re committed to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship in everything we do. From the initial design concept to the final stitch, each piece in our collection is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who take pride in their work.
We understand that quality is about more than just durability—it’s also about creating garments that stand the test of time both in terms of style and construction. That’s why we place a strong emphasis on timeless design and impeccable construction techniques that ensure our garments retain their beauty and integrity for years to come. When you invest in a Selai piece, you’re not just purchasing a fashion statement; you’re investing in a piece of wearable art that’s been lovingly crafted to bring joy and beauty into your life.
As stewards of the environment, we recognize the urgent need to minimize our impact on the planet and preserve its natural resources for future generations. That’s why environmental stewardship is at the core of everything we do at Selai. From reducing waste and conserving water to minimizing energy consumption and embracing circularity, we’re constantly striving to innovate and implement sustainable practices throughout our production process.
We believe in taking a holistic approach to environmental stewardship that encompasses every aspect of our business, from sourcing materials to packaging and distribution. That’s why we prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, recycled fibers, and plant-based dyes, as well as exploring innovative alternatives that push the boundaries of sustainable fashion. By choosing Selai, you’re not just making a fashion statement—you’re making a positive impact on the planet and helping to build a more sustainable future for all.
At Selai, we believe that every individual involved in the creation of our garments deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. That’s why we’re committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical labor practices throughout our entire supply chain. From the artisans who weave our fabrics to the seamstresses who bring our designs to life, we prioritize the well-being and rights of every worker who contributes to our brand.
We believe in fostering long-term partnerships with manufacturers who share our values and demonstrate a commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for professional growth and development. By prioritizing ethical labor practices, we’re not only ensuring the well-being of the people who make our clothes but also empowering them to thrive and succeed in their careers. When you choose Selai, you can wear our garments with confidence, knowing that they’ve been ethically made by skilled artisans who are valued members of our global community.
Transparency is a core value at Selai, and we believe that our customers have the right to know exactly where their clothes come from and how they’re made. That’s why we’re committed to providing complete transparency throughout every step of our production process, from sourcing materials to manufacturing and distribution.
We believe that transparency is not just about sharing information—it’s about building trust and fostering meaningful connections with our customers. That’s why we go above and beyond to provide detailed insights into our supply chain, including information about the origins of our materials, the people who make our clothes, and the environmental impact of our production processes. By choosing Selai, you’re not just purchasing a garment—you’re joining a community of conscious consumers who care about the story behind their clothes and the impact they have on the world.
At Selai, we believe that fashion has the power to bring people together and create positive change in the world. That’s why community engagement is an integral part of our mission and values. We’re committed to actively engaging with our local and global communities, whether it’s through partnerships, events, or educational initiatives.
We believe in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change, which is why we’re constantly seeking out opportunities to work with like-minded organizations and individuals who share our passion for ethical and sustainable fashion. From hosting clothing drives to raise awareness about textile waste to partnering with local artisans to showcase traditional craftsmanship, we’re dedicated to using fashion as a force for good in the world. By joining forces with our community, we’re not just creating beautiful clothes—we’re building a movement that celebrates creativity, diversity, and sustainability.
Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Selai. We believe that by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, we can create a more sustainable and socially responsible fashion industry. That’s why we’re constantly exploring new materials, techniques, and technologies that enable us to minimize our environmental footprint while maximizing our positive impact on the world.
From experimenting with innovative fabrics made from recycled materials to exploring cutting-edge production methods that reduce waste and energy consumption, we’re committed to driving progress and leading the way towards a more sustainable future for fashion. We believe that by embracing innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, we can inspire positive change and create a brighter, more sustainable future for fashion and the planet.
Through our efforts, we aim to create a fashion ecosystem that transcends beyond aesthetics and drives positive change. We believe that fashion should be an expression of individuality and responsibility, a reflection of the beauty that can emerge when style and ethics coexist harmoniously.
Join us on this journey to redefine fashion’s future—one that is not only chic and sophisticated but also mindful of the world we share and the generations yet to come.
Meet our exceptional team of innovators, a cohesive blend of dynamic minds, diverse talents, and profound expertise from a spectrum of fields. Each member brings a unique set of skills, knowledge, and perspectives, contributing to our shared mission to revolutionize the sourcing industry.
Our team is a symphony of seasoned professionals, young visionaries, tech-savvy innovators, strategic thinkers, and industry experts, all working in unison to reshape the contours of the sourcing sector. We hail from various backgrounds including technology, supply chain management, finance, design, and sustainability, amalgamating our multifaceted experiences to pioneer groundbreaking solutions.
While our experiences and fields of expertise may vary, we are united by a common purpose: to create impactful, innovative solutions that transform how the sourcing industry operates. Our diverse skill sets and experiences interweave to foster an environment ripe for out-of-the-box thinking, creative problem-solving, and unparalleled excellence.
Our teamwork exemplifies the perfect synergy, where collaborative spirit meets mutual respect, enabling us to tap into the collective intelligence of the group to navigate challenges, generate ideas, and implement solutions that are sophisticated, efficient, and revolutionary. We believe that our collaborative ethos is the catalyst that drives us to exceed boundaries and redefine industry standards.
Our team is steadfast in its commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. We relentlessly pursue knowledge, embrace innovation, and apply our insights to develop cutting-edge solutions that address the ever-evolving needs of the sourcing industry. Our passion for excellence is reflected in our meticulous attention to detail, our pursuit of optimal strategies, and our unwavering dedication to delivering superior value to our clients and partners.
In our quest to reshape the sourcing industry, we place sustainability and ethical considerations at the forefront of everything we do. We leverage our varied expertise to devise solutions that are not only innovative but also responsible and sustainable, contributing to a more equitable and environmentally conscious industry.
Anticipating the future landscape of the sourcing industry, we employ a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that our solutions are adaptable, scalable, and poised to address the future needs and challenges of the sector. Our diverse experiences and backgrounds enable us to foresee industry trends, technological advancements, and shifts in market dynamics, positioning us to lead the industry into a new era of transformative change.
Ahmed Rabib Towsif, CEO and Founder of Selai Sourcing Inc., hails from Bangladesh with a passion for travel and music. With a background in entrepreneurship and a Master’s in Management from Queen’s University, he leads Selai with a focus on sustainability and transparency. Ahmed's entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with his love for innovation, music, and travel, drives him to make a meaningful impact in every endeavor.
Hu Zhengyu (Zy), our Chief Operating Officer, brings a wealth of experience in engineering and operations management. With a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from Queen’s University, Zy's analytical approach is honed through diverse leadership roles across sectors. From overseeing technology development at Wonderlabs Studio to managing operations at Wispark Group, Zy's expertise spans project execution, client relations, and team leadership.
Liang Shuangyan (Alice), our Chief Human Resource Officer, brings extensive expertise in human resources and management. With an MBA and a Bachelor's in Industrial Enterprise Management from Tianjin University, Alice has held key positions at Nestlé, ABB, Motorola Solutions, and Mercer. Her role in managing compensation, benefits, and global mobility has been pivotal in fostering high-performance cultures.
Huang Yuantao (Robin), our Chief Technology Officer, boasts a distinguished career marked by roles at SAP Labs China, Camelot ITLab, ESP Consulting, LITEON, and Artesyn. With dual Bachelor’s degrees in Mechanics and Computer Science from the University of Science and Technology of China, Robin's expertise spans software development, project management, and IT consultancy.
Mou Wei (Bryon), our Chief Sales Officer, brings a diverse background in economics and auditing. With a Bachelor of Arts from San Francisco State University and experience at Moore Accounting Firm, Bryon's analytical skills will shape our market strategy. His sales expertise from Shenzhen Zhongzhou Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd, where he negotiated finances for innovative projects, will be crucial in building relationships with apparel brands and manufacturers.
We are delighted to welcome Susan Kates to our Board of Directors at Selai! With her extensive background as a Professor at Humber College and Chief Marketing Officer at Kates Consulting, Susan brings invaluable expertise in entrepreneurship, marketing, and business development. Her leadership roles in sales and marketing, along with her entrepreneurial ventures like Dinnerworks, showcase her ability to drive growth and innovation. Susan's strategic thinking and passion for creating opportunities will be instrumental as we redefine the apparel industry.
Introducing Syeda Anita Hasan, our Director—an innovative professional seamlessly blending Media, Broadcasting, and Digital Marketing expertise. With a knack for crafting compelling narratives and leveraging cutting-edge platforms, Anita drives unmatched engagement and results. Her keen eye for fashion trends and deep understanding of digital landscapes make her a visionary leader shaping the future of our industry.
Our team is a unique blend of individuals from a myriad of fields, each bringing distinct expertise to the table. Together, we’re reshaping the sourcing industry with innovation, sustainability, and forward-thinking strategies. From tech aficionados to industry stalwarts, our collective experience converges to create solutions that are transformative and impactful. Join us as we redefine sourcing for the modern era.