I’ve turned distressed denim—once destined for the landfill—into something meaningful: handmade bracelets and dog bandanas crafted from washed recycled jeans to raise money for the Canadian Mental Health Association. 

 

This project brings together many things that have helped me personally on my mental health journey: artistic expression, creativity, sustainable fashion, and my deep love for animals. 

 

In 2024, an estimated 6.7 million Canadians are affected by mental illness—about 1 in 2 will experience it by age 40. 

At the same time, Canadians discard nearly 500 million kilograms of fabric each year, with 85% ending up in landfills. 

 

By transforming something overlooked into something beautiful, I hope to inspire change and spread awareness. 

 

Please tag photos of you and/or your pet wearing my creations so I can repost them and help grow this movement. You can also follow my journey to Miss Universe Canada on Instagram @jada_budz 

Every share brings us closer to raising funds and breaking the stigma around mental health.

 

Anyone who is thinking about suicide, or who is worried about someone they know. Connect to a responder to get help without judgement.

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Call: 9-8-8 (toll-free, 24/7)

Text: 9-8-8 (toll-free, 24/7)