Agapi Sikkim: A sustainable skincare brand | Fusion - WeRIndia

In a remarkable journey from corporate roles at America Online and Asti Electronics to entrepreneurship in her aunt’s landscaping business, Rinzing Choden Bhutia found her calling in the tranquil environs of Sikkim.

Returning to her roots in 2012, Bhutia and her husband envisioned Agapi Farm, a sustainable farm stay in Kabi, North Sikkim.

The farm, originally intended for wooden cottages, took an unexpected turn towards sustainability when a conversation on plastic avoidance sparked the idea of handcrafted soaps.

The inception of Agapi Sikkim was marked by Bhutia’s dedication to utilizing local resources.

The main ingredient, Tite Pati or mugwort, was sourced locally, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to Himalayan ingredients.

The brand, born out of Bhutia’s kitchen, found a unique social angle during the pandemic.

Bhutia trained women from tribal communities in soap making, providing them with livelihood opportunities and empowerment.

Agapi’s commitment to sustainability extended beyond soaps, with Bhutia undergoing an online skincare course to introduce creams and lotions. The brand’s products, certified by a lab, gained traction through hotels, sustainability-focused marketplaces, and online platforms.

Despite starting small, Agapi attracted attention and recently secured a Rs 60 lakh fund infusion, making it the first women-led startup in Sikkim to attract foreign direct investment.

With a valuation of $1 million, Agapi stands as a testament to Bhutia’s vision and the brand’s focus on Himalayan ingredients.

The infusion of funds, including support from Alsisar Impact, positions Agapi for substantial growth.

Bhutia emphasizes that the brand’s uniqueness lies in its dedication to local resources and the empowerment of women in Sikkim.

Moving forward, Agapi aims not only to expand its product line but also to continue its mission of empowering women.

Besides, it aims to equip them with skills beyond production, marketing, packaging, and distribution.

Agapi Sikkim, with its roots in sustainability and community empowerment, is poised to make a lasting impact in the skincare industry while fostering positive change in the Himalayan communities it serves.

Image Credit: Agapisikkim Website Screenshot

Image Reference: https://agapisikkim.com/