our Story

Untouched World was the first fashion company in the world to be recognised by the United Nations for sustainability, and is a certified B Corp.  The impact of this company has received ongoing recognition, with more information available on its website here and impact measures here.     However founder Peri Drysdale asked herself a key question "how can we use business profits to create the most impact outside of the business, beyond just donating to charity", and through research and consideration formed The Untouched World Foundation in September 2000.

The goal of the Foundation is to educate young adults on key issues facing society, unlock their unique leadership potential and inspire them to become active change-makers who would make the most positive impact on our world.

Our very first programme ran on Ōruawairua Blumine Island in the Marlborough Sounds in 2002.  It focused on developing a sanctuary for at risk native animal and plant species and through experiential learning, practical work and problem solving, young peoples' critical thinking and leadership capability would be developed with sustainability outcomes.

Participants of the Ōruawairua programme helped the island to gain predator free status by 2008, enabling endangered birds to be introduced by Department of Conservation. 

Since those early beginnings the Foundation has held experiential learning programmes across the country.   In Tāmaki Makaurau the focus was on Sustainable Cities, in Ōkārito on Saving the Rowi - a critically endangered sub species of kiwi.   In Canterbury programmes have looked at rubbish, fresh water, and our harbours.  We continually develop new programmes to approach sustainability relevant to local communities.

The Foundation receives ongoing funding and in-kind support from Untouched World fashion company.  We are proud to have attracted international attention including the United Nations, and we are grateful to have received ongoing support from Rātā and Otago Community Trusts, from Department of Conservation and Environment Canterbury.

Most importantly we have engaged with over 3000 secondary and tertiary students, many of whom have gone on to become champions of a sustainable future; and we look forward to a significant expansion of our programme from 2025 onwards.