In an era where sustainability and inclusivity are becoming more than just buzzwords, KobSook, a Made-in-India sneaker brand, is redefining both. By empowering differently-abled individuals as designers and crafting eco-friendly sneakers, KobSook stands as a movement rather than just a business.
“I strongly believe that once you reach a certain position in life, you must give back to society, but sustainably,” says Aziz Kapasi, the 50-year-old founder of KobSook. The brand manufactures handcrafted sneakers featuring unique prints designed by five talented artists with disabilities.
A Sustainable Footprint
KobSook sneakers are crafted from fine vegan suede, recyclable canvas, and exclusive hand-painted or digitally designed artwork. Unlike mass-produced factory footwear, the handmade process ensures support for skilled labor while minimizing energy consumption. Aziz also emphasizes the need to create better employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, making their skills more marketable and financially sustainable.
A deep-seated personal experience shaped Aziz’s commitment to this cause. “I have seen the ill-treatment received by disabled people in the family I grew up in,” he shares, choosing not to dwell on the painful past but using it as a force for change.
From Corporate World to Social Entrepreneurship
Founded in 2021, KobSook emerged from Aziz’s passion to create a platform for disabled individuals while ensuring a successful business model. Having spent over 20 years in the corporate world with leading FMCGs like PepsiCo, Aziz stepped into uncharted waters—the footwear industry.
Through his wife, Dr. Maria Kapasi, he discovered AIMS Media, an organization focused on training disabled individuals in digital and other creative skills. KobSook then collaborated with AEMP (Ability Enhancement Multimedia Program), an initiative that tailors skill training for disabled individuals based on their strengths and interests. The result? A brand with a purpose.
The Art Behind the Sneakers
KobSook’s designs are inspired by the artistic creations of differently-abled individuals. The artwork is hand-painted or designed digitally in Photoshop and later converted into high-resolution prints for the sneakers. The process, while intricate, is a fulfilling one.
Artists work closely with the internal team, refining their ideas while ensuring that the final designs reflect their original vision. “Sometimes, we create shoes that may not be perfect in finish, but it’s worth it to see the joy on an artist’s face,” Aziz says passionately.
Empowerment Beyond Employment
For Aziz, employing disabled individuals isn’t about sympathy; it’s about recognition. “True motivation comes from acknowledgment, not pity,” he asserts. The training process is meticulous, requiring patience. “If a typical student needs six months to master Photoshop, a differently-abled individual might take eight months—or even three years,” he explains.
To streamline the training, the team conducts a CQ (Cognitive Quotient) test to gauge the individuals’ capacity for grasping design concepts. “We focus on their talent and train them accordingly,” says Arushi Sundriyal, a multimedia trainer at AEMP.
Sustainability at the Core
KobSook isn’t just about social impact; its commitment to sustainability is equally strong. The brand uses vegan suede and recyclable canvas for its sneakers. Their fabrics, sourced from HF International, an MSME in Agra, undergo a meticulous process of lamination and fusion before reaching the assembly stage.
“By outsourcing the initial production stages, we provide employment to semi-skilled laborers as well,” Aziz explains. Every component, from soles to laces, is sourced from within India, ensuring high-quality and sustainable production.
Creating an Impact: From India to Dubai
KobSook’s impact extends beyond employment. The hashtag #IAmDifferentButAble embodies the brand’s mission—to celebrate abilities rather than disabilities.
A testament to their impact is Anjana, one of the designers, whose artwork is now showcased at Dubai Airport. “She is extraordinary with art, and now her work is recognized internationally,” Aziz shares with pride.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Visibility
With over 3,000 pairs sold and Rs. 25 lakh in revenue last year, KobSook is steadily growing. The company is now working on increasing brand visibility through innovative avenues. “We plan to showcase our sneakers in cafes and gyms, allowing people to experience the design and comfort firsthand,” Aziz reveals.
Customers are also resonating with the brand beyond its backstory. “Initially, I bought the sneakers for their unique design, and only later did I discover the brand’s mission. I feel proud to support such a cause,” says Vijay Rana, a customer who now owns five pairs of KobSook sneakers.
Summing Up
KobSook is proving that business can be a force for good. By merging sustainability with inclusivity, the brand is not only redefining the sneaker industry but also setting an example for other businesses to follow.
As Aziz puts it, “Other companies must step up and create an environment where disabled individuals feel valued for their skills. Ultimately, it’s the organization that benefits, right?” Indeed, KobSook stands as a beacon of how the right blend of passion, innovation, and empathy can make a difference—one sneaker at a time.