Today we’d like to introduce you to Keane Veran.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was diagnosed with leukemia in 2008 at the age of 10 and spent most of my childhood undergoing treatment. My battle with cancer was an eye-opening experience that changed my identity to more than just a kid. As a patient undergoing weekly doses of chemotherapy, I found the strength to endure these procedures through family, friends, hospital staff and even complete strangers. The biggest catalyst for my recovery was my encounter with Make-A-Wish Foundation. In 2011, they granted my wish to meet President Obama in the White House and I spent several days spellbound in DC. My wish was truly spectacular but it was the people I had met that really left an impact on me. Complete strangers, I met on my trip encouraged and supported my battle with leukemia. After my trip, I had developed a new sense of hope, determination, and gratitude towards my cancer community.
Immediately after my wish, I became a Make-A-Wish ambassador to show my appreciation and support for the organization that had done so much for me. As I grew older, I realized I wanted to do more. So when I was declared a cancer survivor on November 8th, 2017, I decided to launch OURA with my brother.
When we started the company together, it was with the determination to give back to our communities help uplift others who were battling cancer.
My journey with cancer gave me purpose and created the path I am on today.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s rarely ever a smooth road. As an entrepreneur, it feels like I am building my own road with no knowledge how to do so, constantly making mistakes, but always forcing myself to move forward.
One of the biggest mistakes we made when we launched was misunderstanding our optimal audience. When initially launching, we targeted the cancer audience. We quickly realized that we had a much broader base of support from the wellness community as well as the philanthropic community. A lot of the verbiage we use and products we make has now shifted to focus on this audience.
Please tell us about OURA.
OURA is a mission-driven social enterprise that works with renowned scientists and doctors to infuse high-tech solutions into everyday products like antimicrobial face masks, aprons, facial cleansing products, clothing and more. OURA combines technology and design to provide consumers with antimicrobial apparel and home goods that are scientifically backed and extensively verified.
There’s a Japanese legend that for every 1,000 origami cranes, a wish of happiness and good fortune is granted. In honor of this belief, for every 1,000 products sold, OURA partners with Make-a-Wish to grant the wish of a childhood cancer patient.
Founded in 2017, OURA’s sustainable, high-quality products combine advanced technology and detailed craftsmanship to reimagine items consumers use on a daily basis by making them safer and healthier. All of OURA’s technical fabrics are infused with safe and natural minerals that make them anti-bacterial, self-
cleaning, hypoallergenic, UV protective and/or water-repellent, breathable and moisture-wicking.
I am the cofounder and CEO of OURA so spend my time working on multiple fronts of the company. A lot of the job requires proper delegation, implementing new systems, and structuring plans to drive company growth. I find myself focused on social media management, PR outreach, content creation, and day to day operations.
I am most proud about our company’s commitment to do social good. Being able to give back to the cancer communities that have uplifted and healed so many children is an absolute blessing and it’s such an exciting thing to be able to do. I think it is so important for companies to have some form of CSR (corporate social responsibility) to create a positive impact in our communities.
I believe OURA differentiates itself because of our story, our products, and our standards. We take our customer’s health into consideration and manufacture products we believe will help them to live healthier, cleaner lives using advanced technologies and rigorously tested products without any drastic changes to their lifestyle.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
There are a lot of people I am thankful for who have helped me grow OURA to where it is today. I am truly grateful for the staff from my old pediatric oncology at Kasier Permanente. They were my biggest supporters and encouraged me to constantly fight to overcome the odds. Their overwhelming love was infectious and empowering.
The many volunteers at Make-A-Wish Foundation who helped to orchestrate my wish. The thought and intention they put into my wish was the inspiration that led to OURA.
And of course, the support of my family and friends who helped me navigate through the many highs and lows. Especially my brother, Shaun Veran – COO of OURA, who went on this entire journey with me, from my cancer diagnosis to the creation and growth of our company. It has been a lot of pain, a lot of stress but a lot of growth. Without his help, OURA would not be growing as rapidly as it is today.
Pricing:
- OURA Air Mask (Without N95 Filter, With N95 Filter) – $50 / $58,
- Resilient – $79
- For every 1,000 pieces of headwear sold, OURA grants a child’s wish through our nonprofit partners. UV protection – UPF 50+. Infused with IR tech to maintain your body temperature. Bacteria killing minerals embedded in every thread. Moisture-wicking fabric to dissipate sweat. Water repellent, hydrophobic technology to keep you dry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ouragami.org
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ouragami/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ouragami
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ouragami_
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