My name is Alessandra Jourdan, and I was born and raised on the west side of Puerto Rico. Growing up surrounded by the island’s natural beauty deeply influenced my outlook on life and work. I later moved to the United States to pursue a career in fashion design, attending the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). In 2016 I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BFA in Fashion Design and a minor in Accessory Design.
During my time at SCAD, I developed a passion for sustainable fashion, a path inspired by both research and hands-on experiences. It was also during my accessory classes that I discovered cork, an extraordinary material that quickly became central to my work. For my senior fashion collection, I decided to incorporate cork, and I haven’t stopped working with it since.
After graduating, I moved to Los Angeles, California, where my professional journey in fashion began. My first full-time job was at Stateside, a brand committed to local production, with every product designed and made within a 10-mile radius. This role gave me valuable insight into the entire production process. Later, I joined Decor, a global apparel design and manufacturing company, where I designed for major brands like Universal Thread and Prologue for Target, as well as multiple Walmart labels.
In 2019, I began developing my own brand, Yabisí, and since 2020, I’ve been working on it full-time, designing and making cork accessories. Running my business has been a transformative experience, teaching me countless skills through trial and error. I manage every aspect, from design and production to online operations and in-person markets.
Yabisí has allowed me to live in incredible places, including Portland, Oregon; Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico; and now, Montreal, Canada. Each move has brought new perspectives and valuable lessons about life and business. Now in Montreal, I’m taking Yabisí at a slower pace, creating space for new opportunities and skills while continuing to craft my carefully designed goods. This balance allows me to remain true to my values and explore new horizons.