Sofia Sacoor was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the young age of 8, and since then, her life has been completely transformed. The initial shock of having to learn to manage such a chronic condition at such a young age shaped her worldview. „Surviving diabetes should not depend on the financial conditions of a family or an individual,“ explains Sofia, now 17, whose frustration with the lack of access to essential medications to control the disease led to the creation of SÜ1. The brand’s name is personal and symbolic: „SU“ is a nickname used by her family and friends, while the „1“ refers to type 1 diabetes. This intimate connection reflects the creator’s desire to create something that goes beyond profit and contributes to a cause that is very close to her heart.
SÜ1 started with a small collection of sportswear and leisurewear, designed for young people of Generation Z, an audience that, like Sofia, seeks comfort and happiness in the clothes they wear. With the slogan „A ripple of smiles,“ the brand aims to spread positivity to all those living with type 1 diabetes. The creative process is a reflection of Sofia’s own life: „We want people, when they buy our clothes, to feel above all comfort and happiness.“
Despite the initial success, Sofia does not hide the challenges she has faced. „Sometimes, companies and potential partners do not take me seriously because I am just a young person,“ she admits. However, her determination and optimism have been her greatest assets.
One of the pillars of SÜ1 is a commitment to solidarity. So far, the brand has made significant donations to the Portuguese Diabetic Association (APDP), the Al Jalila Foundation in the United Arab Emirates, and the Sunway Medical Center in Malaysia, among other institutions. For Sofia, these partnerships are essential to fulfill her dream of helping more children with type 1 diabetes. „In Dubai, a simple insulin vial can cost up to $300, while in Portugal it is free,“ she recalls, highlighting the disparity in access to essential treatments.
Sofia has big plans for SÜ1. In addition to expanding sales and increasing partnerships, she intends to continue launching innovative and charitable collections. Recently, the brand launched a new version of its website, and the next step is to increase the global recognition of SÜ1. „I want to help as many children with type 1 diabetes in as many different countries as possible,“ emphasizes the young woman with conviction.
The entrepreneur also recognizes the growing importance of fashion in promoting social causes. „The world of fashion is moving away from something more physical to something more subjective, where the consumer’s experiences and emotions are more important than the purchase itself.“ With this vision, Sofia believes that SÜ1 is paving the way for a new era where fashion and social responsibility go hand in hand.
Sofia Sacoor is living proof that age is not a barrier to making a difference. With SÜ1, she is creating a legacy that goes far beyond clothes: she is building a platform that unites fashion, solidarity, and health, always with the goal of spreading smiles and hope.