Holiday Gift Guide: Shop U of G Alumni-Owned Businesses
As the festive season approaches, the excitement of finding the perfect gifts for loved ones is in the air. This year, the spotlight shines on the innovative and diverse offerings from our talented alumni through the "4 Days of Alumni Gifting" event. This exclusive holiday gift guide is a celebration of four alumni-owned businesses - each bringing a unique blend of creativity, passion, and expertise.
For the Book Lover in your life...
Lucky Iron Fish Paperback Book: A Social Enterprise Tackling Iron Deficiency
When Canadian researcher Dr. Christopher Charles was studying the devastation caused by iron deficiency in impoverished populations in Southeast Asia, he discovered an innovative way to help people get iron into their diets: place an iron ingot right into their cooking pots. Dr. Gavin Armstrong, a biomedical scientists and entrepreneur, built upon Charles's findings to develop, manufacture, and distribute that ingot, which became The Lucky Iron Fish, a cost-effective solution to iron deficiency. The business thrived and the product was recognized around the world by NGOs and organizations such as World Vision, CARE International, Catholic Relief Services, and GlobalMedic. While sustaining growth through the pandemic was a challenge, Lucky Iron Fish met it head-on and now looks ahead to a bright future. View book.
Owner: Dr. Gavin Armstrong, B.Comm '11, PhD '16
Manomin: Caring for Ecosystems and Each Other
Celebrate the sacred and sustainable story of Manomin (wild rice) with this beautifully illustrated collection. Blending history, recipes, stories, and Indigenous wisdom, Manomin: Caring for Ecosystems and Each Other explores the cultural, ecological, and spiritual significance of this vital grain. A meaningful gift for those passionate about food sovereignty and interconnected living. View book.
Editor: Brittany Luby, Margaret Lehman, BA '21, Andrea Bradford, Samantha Mehltretter, PhD '24, and Jane Mariotti, B.Sc. '23
For the Fashionista in your life...
Après Actif
Embrace the après-ski spirit with Après Actif's minimalist fashion. Inspired by the slopes, our stylish, durable apparel is designed for those who celebrate life's small victories and seek a better state of mind. 20% off your first order using promo code: GRYPHONS. View website.
Owner: Lauren Kurtz, B.Comm '15
For the Foodie in your life...
Retea
Retea brings the joy of authentic, eco-friendly bubble tea to your home. Our DIY kits and reusable cups offer a sustainable, delicious experience for every bubble tea enthusiast! View website.
Owner: Toby Zhou, BASc. '21
For someone who wants to make an impact...
Celebrate the joy of giving by making a meaningful donation to the University of Guelph in honor of someone special. Choose an area close to their heart— like student scholarships, groundbreaking research, or campus initiatives- and send them a personalized eCard to share how the gift is making a difference.
Make your gift today and set your eCard to deliver any time— even Christmas morning, and create lasting change.