Turn pages into entrepreneurship with sustainable materials

After giving birth in 2021, 26-year-old Trudy Ann Cunningham struggled with depression and anxiety. During this time of “despair and mental exhaustion,” she rekindled her passion for writing poetry and began bookbinding.

And soon her new therapeutic hobby became her business – Paper Fyah Press.

“I decided to launch my business with the mission of helping others improve their mental health through creative self-expression. I firmly believe that despite the digital age, nothing can beat the humble notebook and the power of putting pen to paper.” news episode. “Having a blank page and the ability to write, journal, doodle, sketch, or plan is underestimated in keeping us alert and free of mental clutter.”

Paper Fyah Press sells eco-friendly handmade magazines and boxes made in Cunningham’s home studio in Kitson Town, St. Catherine.

Soft notebook (left) and notebook made of natural cork

She emphasized that it was very important for her to use sustainable materials for her products.

“The inside pages of most of my books are from FSC-certified sources to ensure responsible management of the world’s forests. For the covers, I use natural cork, kraft paper, vegan leather, recycled chipboard, and other sustainable options.”

Describing Paper Fyah Press as a “work in progress,” Cunningham said it took months to overcome her social anxiety and expand her client base beyond family and friends.

Even as she now “fearlessly” promotes her products, she is aware of the challenges she may face but believes that what she offers is much more than magazines and whistleblowers.

“It is undeniable that it is not easy to build a new brand of stationery in such a digital world,” she said.

“My goal is to show people that my products are designed with care for both people and the planet. It’s not just handmade books. It’s a lifestyle of being able to slow down, express yourself, spend time in nature, and ignite the inner spark within you without worldly distractions, Cunningham added.

Softbound Black Laptops

The convenient and portable pocket notebook is among the best sellers. An English literature graduate at the University of the West Indies anticipates exponential growth in her business.

“My business is still very young. We have significant growth and development to look forward to. Since I work in my own home studio, my short-term goal is to make it easy to customize their magazine or e-magazine covers so they can be gifted on special occasions.”

It also encourages anyone who can make their business greener to do so.

“Sustainability is the future. We all have a role to play in protecting our ecosystems and preserving natural resources for future generations. The biggest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it,” said Robert Swan.

“We all have to do what we can. I encourage anyone who wants to incorporate sustainable practices into their business to do just that because no matter how small, your actions will make a difference,” Cunningham said.