Khadi Organics
About
The high cost of genetically modified cotton seeds, chemical fertilizers and pesticides has driven many cotton farmers in India to commit suicide out of shame of not being able to provide for their families.
"Khadi" means hand-spun and was promoted by Mahatma Gandhi to create self-empowerment and put the power back in the hands of the common people in India. This traditional organic farming method removes the need for expensive agricultural products thus lowering the cost for farmers and improving livelihoods.
The middle class in India may be growing but these farmers are becoming poorer. We strive to help these families to become independent and self-sufficient by supporting local programs.
Khadi Organics follows Gandhi's philosophy of self-empowerment, and is dedicated to giving a hand-up to those in need to break the cycle of poverty. This is achieved through socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable initiatives. Our products are made from 100% organic cotton which is grown and handcrafted in India.
We belive in partnerships in order to create long-term solutions.
We believe in self-empowerment.
Our Team
Dr. Sadhana Prasad Co-Founder
Dr. Prasad was born in India and immigrated to Canada in 1967 when her father came to teach Engineering at the University of Waterloo. She met her husband at the University of Waterloo, got married, and then went on to do her medical degree at Mcmaster Univsersity and specialty training at the University of Toronto. She developed her interest in Geriatrics while working at the Baycrest Center for Geriatric Care in Toronto and has practiced this art of Internal Medicine/Geratrics back in her hometown of Waterloo since 1987, while nurturing her 3 children. She has continued to give much to her community, showing leadership and innovation. In keeping with this tradition, with strong support from her family, she was moved to establish Khadi Organics. She makes time to spend with her family, climb mountains, hike, ski, and garden; ever sensitive to environmental issues.
Paul Schmidt Co-Founder
Paul completed his Applied Chemistry B.Sc. Honours degree at the University of Waterloo in 1976, and an MBA Finance major at the University of Toronto in 1982. He worked for over 10 years in the Toronto area for both CIL and American Cyanamid as a technical sales representative, corporate purchasing manager, sales manager and assistant general manager. In 1988 Paul moved to Waterloo, Ontario where he embarked on a 20 year real estate career with Lauer Realty and Re/Max. Paul is now retired and continues to live in Waterloo with his wife of 30+ years, Sadhana Prasad. Pauls loves to windsurf in North Caroline and spend time at their cottage in Wasaga Beach.
Josh Schmidt Co-Founder
Joshua is an entrepreneur who in starting several businesses, has traveled worldwide to gain insight into assisting developing countries. Joshua holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Royal Roads University where he grew a passion for sustainable practices and helped to develop the Advancing Canadian Entrepreneurs (ACE) branch of the Eric C. Douglas Center for Entrepreneurship, guiding future students to "make a difference while making a dollar" with great success. Josh brings a focus on education and community development to help local businesses and populaces thrive, and is always searching for new opportunities to develop sustainable communities.