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On August 8, 2009, Shokay launched the Yak Around the World Campaign by sending 24 hand-knit baby yaks to 24 individuals who are dedicating their time and careers to creating positive social change. During their world tour, the yaks are highlighting changemakers and their innovative work, aiming to inspire people all over the world to think of new ways they can do good and have an impact.

When each person receives their yak, they will help kick off the campaign by answering the question, “What are you doing to change the world today?” They will then take a picture with their yak, write a description of their cause or organization, and submit it to Shokay via a simple online form. It is then their turn to send the yak to another changemaker they know, and that person will help continue to spread the campaign all over the globe.

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FAQ

What is a yak?

Yaks are majestic animals that live in mountainous areas above 10,000 feet, where few animals can survive in harsh conditions. There are only 14 million yaks in the world, of which 13 million are found in Western China.

What is Ventures in Development?

Ventures in Development is a non-profit organization that strives to be a catalyst in the creation of social enterprises in the Greater China region. Through monthly events called Social Innovation Salons, held in both Hong Kong and Shanghai, Ventures in Development's Social Innovation Factory program brings individuals from various fields together to brainstorm innovative solutions to social problems. By incubating ideas that have the potential to develop into sustainable businesses, Ventures in Development aims to bring social and economic development to impoverished areas of China. The Social Innovation Fund will help fund pilot programs generated from these salons.

What is Shokay?

Shokay is a social enterprise currently being incubated by Ventures in Development. Shokay aims to bring Tibetan yak down to the international market in a way that promotes sustainable development. By sourcing the raw yak fiber directly from nomadic herders, Shokay gives them an opportunity to earn a higher income while also preserving their traditional lifestyle. Shokay also provides long term employment and income generation to the team of hand-knitters who create our finished products.

Why yaks?

Shokay’s social business centers around yaks, the communities that raise them, and the resources they provide. Quite simply, the hand-knit baby yaks represent the ways Shokay hopes to change the world.