‘Scentrepreneur’ given Global Woman Peace Ambassador award by WFWPI
Editor’s Note:
Ms. Sue Phillips is a fragrance entrepreneur in NYC who customizes scents for international celebrities and brand names for over 35 years now. She fashions herself as a ‘scentrepreneur’ born in South Africa, and an actress and entrepreneur in New York. Her fragrances business began in 1990 and is located in Tribeca. Her products and packaging adhere to sustainability principles much needed from businesses today.
The international women’s group Women’s Federation for World Peace International accorded Ms. Phillips the Global Woman Peace Ambassador award for Leadership in Business and Economic Empowerment on March 9, 2025, at the New Yorker Hotel.)
Sue Phillips - committed to sustainability in creating and packaging fragrances.
Acceptance Speech
By Sue Phillips
Good afternoon, everyone,
I am deeply honored to accept this recognition as the Global Woman Peace Ambassador for Leadership in Women in Business and Economic Empowerment. This award is not just about me—it is a celebration of every woman who has dared to dream, lead, and create lasting impact.
Women’s empowerment is not just an initiative, it is a necessity. When women are given the tools, resources, and opportunities to succeed in business, they don’t just transform their own lives; they uplift families, communities, and entire economies.
True economic empowerment means sponsoring and supporting women, not just in words, but in action—through mentorship, investment, and access to opportunities that help them thrive.
But as we grow, we must also sustain. Sustainability is not just about protecting our planet — it’s about creating ethical, inclusive, and long-lasting business models. When we empower women entrepreneurs with knowledge, capital, and networks, we ensure that their businesses not only succeed today but create a legacy for future generations.
I am proud to say that I am originally from South Africa but have spent most of my life here in New York, as an actress in the world of theatre and also in my own fragrance business. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities this country has given me, but I also recognize the responsibility we all share in shaping industries that are not just profitable, but also sustainable and impactful.
One of the key challenges in the cosmetic and fragrance industry is overpackaging—a significant issue that contributes to waste, environmental harm, and unnecessary costs. While packaging plays a vital role in attracting consumers, we must rethink how we design, produce, and dispose of these materials.
In my own fragrance business, I have made a commitment to sustainability. My fragrances are packaged in beautiful refillable atomizers, eliminating excess waste, and they come in elegant satin & velvet sachets, which can be reused in many ways. This approach ensures that luxury and sustainability go hand in hand— offering consumers a responsible yet beautiful experience.
1. Many luxury perfumes are still packaged in elaborate, oversized boxes with multiple layers—outer boxes, inner linings, protective foam, and decorative elements.
2. Many brands use heavy glass bottles, plastic wrapping, and metallic embellishments that make recycling difficult.
3. The Environmental Impact?
o Deforestation: The demand for paper-based packaging contributes to forest depletion.
o Plastic Waste: Many plastic inserts and wraps end up in landfills or oceans, taking centuries to break down.
o High Carbon Footprint: Producing and shipping bulky packaging increases CO2 emissions.
4. Consumer Backlash & Industry Shift
o More consumers are demanding sustainable packaging, pushing brands to rethink their designs.
o Companies are now offering refillable bottles, minimalist packaging, and biodegradable materials.
o Some brands claim sustainability but continue using non-recyclable materials or unnecessary packaging under the guise of "luxury presentation."
Phillips at the awarding ceremony of WFWPI at New Yorker Hotel on March 9, 2025. L-R: WFWP USA president Kaileigh Moffit, Kathleen Cronin, Sue Philips, Maria Lourdes de Guevara, Juliesette Hatulan, WFWP president Moriko Hori, WFWPI Vice President Merly Barlaan, and Ms. Paris Moon.
The Future of Fragrance Packaging
• Refillable and reusable bottles
• Biodegradable or compostable materials replacing plastic.
• Minimalist, sustainable design trends reducing waste without compromising aesthetics.
It is time for the beauty and fragrance industry to take true accountability and prioritize environmental responsibility alongside innovation and luxury.
I stand here today because of the incredible individuals and organizations who believe in this vision and have given me wonderful opportunities to be an entrepreneur or should I say SCENTREPRENEUR in this great country!
Thank you to Mr. Anupam Dhutta, Ms. Merly Barlaan, and Carolyn Handschin for this award and your unwavering commitment to this cause.
This honor is not just a recognition—it is a responsibility that I accept with deep gratitude and dedication. Together, let’s uplift, sponsor, and support women in business and continue to make the world smell beautiful!
Let’s build a sustainable, inclusive future where economic empowerment is not a privilege, but a right for every woman, everywhere. (I’d like to add what Anupam said) Passion, perseverance, persistence, and perfume! Thank you.
