Agapi Sikkim, founded by Rinzing Choden Bhutia, has emerged as a beacon of sustainable entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment in the Himalayan region. This pioneering brand has not only redefined eco-conscious skincare but also empowered marginalized indigenous women by providing them with skills and opportunities to thrive.
From Farm to Skincare
The journey of Agapi Sikkim began in 2012 when Rinzing Choden Bhutia, after corporate stints in America Online and Asti Electronics, returned to her native state of Sikkim. She started building a sustainable farmstay in North Sikkim, tapping into the rich local flora. Bhutia learned the art of making handcrafted soaps using local plants, such as Tite Pati, turmeric, and aloe vera, which are known for their various health benefits.
What started as a small kitchen-based operation quickly grew into a significant entrepreneurial venture. Bhutia collaborated with the Skill Development and Capacity Building Department in Sikkim to train 21 women in the village on making handcrafted soaps and skincare products, turning Agapi Sikkim into a social enterprise.
Breaking Barriers on a Global Stage
Agapi Sikkim’s impact transcended borders when it became the first woman-led company from Sikkim to feature on the iconic Times Square billboard in New York City. This milestone was achieved after Rinzing and co-founder Varsha Shrestha participated in the Immersion and Leadership Programme at Bradley University in Illinois. The program, focusing on empowering women globally, provided Agapi Sikkim with invaluable networking and skill-enhancement opportunities.
The Times Square advertisement not only showcased Agapi Sikkim’s commitment to excellence and innovation but also highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of women leaders from Sikkim, setting a precedent for future achievements.
A Historic Milestone in Investment
Agapi Sikkim recently achieved a significant milestone by securing USD 1 million in foreign direct investment (FDI), marking the first FDI in a women-led startup in Sikkim. This funding has propelled Agapi Sikkim to a USD 1 million valuation, setting a powerful precedent for scalable and investable startups emerging from India’s Himalayan and North-Eastern regions.
The infusion of capital will allow Agapi Sikkim to enhance its product range, expand its market presence, and accelerate its growth towards becoming one of India’s top natural skincare brands. The brand has already secured contracts with prestigious hotel chains like JW Marriott and Taj Hotels and has launched its products in stores across the North-East and West Bengal.
Empowering Women, Preserving Heritage
Agapi Sikkim’s mission goes beyond skincare. The brand is deeply committed to empowering women and preserving the unique heritage of Sikkim. With a focus on natural and indigenous ingredients, ethical practices, and environmental responsibility, Agapi Sikkim is setting a new global standard in sustainable skincare.
Rinzing Choden Bhutia and Varsha Shrestha continue to inspire and empower more women to break barriers and achieve their goals, proving that sustainable entrepreneurship from the Himalayas can make a significant impact on the global stage.
