ASUS, a multinational computer hardware and electronics company, recently partnered with Zarah Juan, a Filipino designer known for her sustainable and socially responsible fashion brand, to create a limited-edition Zen Tote. The partnership aims to highlight and celebrate the craftsmanship of Filipino artisans.
ASUS recently concluded the Incredible Transformation: Future-ready Business Management Workshop for Filipino Artisans, showcasing Filipino craftsmanship. This event marked the culmination of the ASUS x Zarah Juan partnership, which started after the highly successful launch of the ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED last year. The partnership involved specialized digital literacy training and laptop donation turnover to seven artisan communities across the Philippines.
On March 9, 2023, artisans from Lake Sebu, Davao City, Isabela Province, Paete, Bulacan, and Marikina City gathered in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, to receive their ASUS laptops. The laptops are intended to help them in their business transformation by digitizing their day-to-day business transactions. This initiative aims to support Filipino artisans in their efforts to adapt to the ever-evolving business landscape.
ASUS joined forces with Filipino fashion accessory designer and social entrepreneur Zarah Juan in September 2022 to create a sustainable, limited-edition bag to launch the world’s lightest 13.3-inch 2.8K OLED laptop, the ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED. The resulting Zarah Juan Zen Tote exemplifies ASUS’ commitment to human-centric design thinking, crafted by artisan communities in the Philippines using locally sourced materials. The Zen Tote perfectly balances aesthetics and functionality, serving as the ideal accessory to pair with the Zenbook S 13 OLED.
Zarah Juan established her brand to address the issue of single-use bags, focusing on bolstering the livelihood of Filipino artisans. As a designer and entrepreneur, she has since become known for her #ProudLocal pieces, made by Filipinos from various regions of the country. Zarah Juan’s brand not only prioritizes environmental sustainability but also social sustainability and cultural preservation by showcasing Filipino heritage.
According to George Su, the Country Manager of ASUS Philippines, the company’s philosophy has always been centered on innovation that enhances the way people live. He expressed his hope that the ASUS Vivobook 13 Slate OLED laptops given to Filipino artisans will empower them to achieve incredible success and prepare them for the global export stage. Su believes that the laptops are critical in preserving and expanding the vibrant Filipino culture.
Zarah Juan, the Creative Director of Zarah Juan, shared that the partnership with ASUS is unique because it is aligned with their vision of empowering Filipino artisans. She expressed gratitude to ASUS for providing the artisans with the necessary tools to become more competitive and ready to face the global market.
A day-long workshop was conducted for Filipino artisans to educate them on how technology can enhance their livelihoods by making it more efficient, quicker, and overall better. The participants were introduced to creating data sheets and encoding business information, such as product costing, materials inventory, and admin forms, among other things. They also received guidance on how to maintain their laptops correctly to ensure that they can be used to their full potential and provide benefits for future generations.
Jenalyn Ipil, a participant from the T’Boli Community, expressed her appreciation to ASUS and Zarah Juan, stating, “This training will help our community improve our skills in handling computers and enhance the way we conduct our business.”
ASUS Philippines upholds its commitment to creating a meaningful and sustainable way of life, not only through its innovative products but also by engaging in activities that benefit Filipino society and the environment. The ASUS x Zarah Juan partnership embodies a holistic approach that increases product awareness while also promoting cultural continuity by providing livelihood opportunities to Filipino artisans and equipping them with digital skills to meet the digital needs of their current and future customers. By taking a small step towards cultural and social sustainability, ASUS aims to inspire Filipinos to join the movement and effect change in their communities.
