Meet Rachel Whitworth is the co-founder of Hello Good World, the conscious consumer’s go-to eCommerce Marketplace. Launched in 2021 in Gold Coast, Australia, Hello Good World is Rachel’s brainchild, offering over 1000 purpose-driven products.
With a mission to empower consumers, Rachel’s platform makes it easy for shoppers to understand the social and environmental impact of their purchases.
Join the conscious consumer movement at www.hellogoodworld.com.
Here we sit down with Rachel to get more insight about her journey as an entrepreneur.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
Rachel: I recently discovered that my drive to become a social entrepreneur was influenced by my Grandad’s stories. As an electrician who owned his own company, he consistently hired individuals in need of a chance, prioritizing character over qualifications.
Reflecting on my own values, I realised my destiny was entrepreneurship. Immersing myself in businesses with a social or environmental impact not only brought alignment but also a sense of peace. The opportunities created and the positive impact achieved through my actions fuel my motivation, regardless of the challenges I face.
How did you get started?
Rachel: My entrepreneurial journey began as a part-time service provider, offering marketing and graphic design. The pivotal moment came when my side hustle started outearning my full-time job. Focused on using my skills for good, I selectively worked with charities, social enterprises, and future B Corps, establishing a solid reputation.
Deepening my understanding of the sector, I collaborated closely with the Queensland Social Enterprise Council. A few years later, Hello Good World emerged as a group solution to challenges faced by purpose-led clients. The initial spark happened at a Startup Weekend in 2021, where in just 48 hours, we validated our market, launched a website for shopping by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), made our first sales, and pitched to a panel of judges.
What was your biggest startup challenge? What steps did you take to overcome it? What did you learn?
Rachel: Our primary challenge mirrors our mission – finding individuals truly committed to aligning their purchasing power with their values. To address this, we’ve developed eCommerce solutions bridging the gap between purpose-led businesses and conscious consumers. However, the journey has revealed a substantial road ahead.
While on the surface, Hello Good World is an eCommerce marketplace with stringent validation criteria for ethical and sustainable brands, the reality is an ongoing process. We continually introduce new products and value-added services to support the growth of brands committed to doing better. The lesson learned is the necessity for constant innovation and evolution to meet the evolving needs and demands of a market that’s not always quick to embrace social change.
What is the most memorable thing you’ve done since you started your business?
Rachel: Over the past year, being recognised for our achievements and securing a spot in Australia Post’s Local Business Heroes of 2023 has been exceptionally fulfilling. While the joy of making a sale is a familiar dance for a small business owner, nothing quite compares to meeting the passionate individuals who return to our site because they genuinely value the impact they’re making. That connection is truly special.
What is one book you recommend, and why?
Rachel: I’m currently immersed in Steven Bartlett’s “Diary of a CEO,” and it’s quickly become my new Business Bible. Bartlett’s 33 principles for business are not only mind-blowing but also feel incredibly achievable. As a fan of his podcast, I admire his deep interest in growth and development, coupled with an openness to new insights. This book is a treasure trove of wisdom that I know I’ll be returning to time and time again.
What are your top 3 favourite online apps, tools or resources and what do you love about them?
Rachel:
- Canva: A game-changer for graphic design. I appreciate its real-time updates and cross-device accessibility, making tasks quicker and easier compared to other platforms like Adobe.
- Slack: Our go-to for internal communication. It keeps all our conversations in one place, crucial for maintaining seamless communication in a remote work setting. It’s like having an office chat, no matter where we are.
- LastPass: A lifesaver for managing my numerous passwords. With hundreds of them, the security and peace of mind LastPass provides far surpass saving directly on my computer. It’s an indispensable tool for me.
In terms of legacy, what is the mark you’d like to leave on the world?
Rachel: I aspire to leave a legacy of positive change, knowing that my contributions have improved people’s lives. I achieve this by dedicating my time and resources to initiatives that fund entrepreneurship and education.
In one sentence, what’s the best advice you’d give to someone just starting out on their entrepreneurial journey?
Rachel: “Embrace failures as opportunities to learn and evolve; your willingness to adapt is the key to accelerated growth on the path to success in your entrepreneurial journey.”
To keep up to date with Rachel and her journey, connect with her on Instagram.
