Thrift Shopping with Purpose.

Thrift shop. Op shop. Rummage sale. Pre-loved, pre-owned, second-hand, vintage.

Whatever you call it, there’s a thrill that comes with uncovering hidden treasures and scoring an absolute bargain during an op shopping adventure.

But what if your thrift find could do more than elevate your wardrobe? What if it could help change a young person’s life?

The Ubuntu Thrift Shop is Brisbane’s newest destination for conscious shoppers who love the treasure-hunt experience with purpose woven into every purchase. Filled with quality, hand-selected pre-loved pieces sourced from across the country, the shop offers everything from timeless wardrobe essentials to bold statement pieces and beautiful accessories.

But Ubuntu is about far more than fashion.

The initiative is the brainchild of co-founder Jess Clayton and was meticulously designed and executed by co-founder Zoe Savic. Both Jess and Zoe live by the Ubuntu philosophy of “humanity to others” and it's a belief that our wellbeing is deeply connected to the wellbeing of those around us.

At its core, the Ubuntu Thrift Shop exists to ensure families can access creative and non-conventional therapeutic outlets that support the wellbeing of young people. Proceeds from every purchase go toward helping families explore options beyond conventional therapy whether that’s art programs, music lessons, equine therapy, movement-based practices, or other expressive and regulating experiences.

Whether families are involved in NDIS programs, accessing mental health plans, or simply searching for something different that resonates with their child, the Ubuntu team is committed to expanding what support can look like.

Families can apply for assistance through the Ubuntu Thrift Shop website by completing a short application form.

Jess and Zoe share,

“We are so excited to open the door to holistic wellbeing through unconventional outlets. Our long-term goal is to build a community that educates, empowers and actively supports the wellbeing of all young people.”

So the next time you stumble across that perfect pre-loved piece, know that your purchase is doing more than reducing waste or refreshing your wardrobe. It’s contributing to a community built on connection, compassion and possibility.

Find the Ubuntu Thrift Shop open at the Uniting Church – Oxford Street, Bulimba, every Friday and Saturday from 10am to 2pm

Donations can be made on nominated “donation days” – the third Friday and Saturday of each month.