Created by a local Toronto artist, you can be sure that our products, just like Toronto itself, are funky and fresh! is made up by myself, Kid Ryan, and Hannah (Twin). We are two of the same, yet generations apart. I had lost everything in my life--my apartment, belongings, and friends. This was hard. However, losing my family, my self-worth, self-respect, and dignity was devastating; the only way
to cope was to forget, and numb the pain. So numb I did. For years I lived on the street, doing what was needed to be done to survive. During this period I lost myself completely and was living off the grid. With no one, and nothing, and a pretty banged up leg, I found myself in Saint Mike's Hospital, in the Rotary Club section (a place where homeless youth can stay for a couple days, clean up, be warm and be safe, while getting treatment) where I met a lady who offered me a way out. Out off the streets. I was at the brink of death. She knew it. I knew it. So I took the chance. It saved my life. She saved my life. Fast forward a couple years and I found myself getting clean, housed in a beautiful apartment that I can call "home", and was on the right path to getting my family back. I was regaining lost self everything, and even finding my way back into school--the Academic Upgrading program at George Brown College--another reason I am where I am. Actually, the reason I am who I am;
GBC has taught me not only academically, but personally as well. They have brought the man out from the boy who knew nothing about himself, and given him not only purpose, but a future as well. There are no words to describe that to which I owe George Brown. Another place I owe my life. Which brings us to today. Today I am a part of society, a college student studying business, and trying to start this little company. I am doing this with Twin, who is younger than me, and going down the same path of destruction I went down. A path which needs to be diverted. This company is an outlet for not only me, but for her as well; it is a way to showcase her brilliant artwork, give her purpose, and help steer her on the right path. I have had many good people in my life to date that have helped me to do so, and all I want is for her to have the same. This is where that starts. By supporting our venture, you are not only supporting local artists, but are helping two street kids begin their lives. This company is an outlet for both her and I to focus our energy, our time, and our lives on the future, while putting an end to our pasts. As we grow--hopefully--we plan to bring work to those still out there struggling on the streets. I would like to give them an avenue out, as I am doing with Twin, and help them to regain lost self, as I have had people do for me.To be a helping hand to those who have been forgotten. This is that hand. We plan to one day showcase art from those still struggling to find themselves, and to give them back a little self-worth and dignity. A way for them to feel a part of something. A way to feel. Although there are only hats to show right now, we are in the works of scanning Twin's artwork and will be coming out with clothing soon. Her art speaks for itself, and we really hope it speaks to you too. So, thank you for supporting us through this venture. You are helping out more than just monetarily, you are helping to make life a little better for those who need it (plus you'll look cool as hell doing so. Just sayin). Thank you for listening, and thank you for your support. It means the world to us.
416 & Co.
