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Maya Jaros is the heart and mind behind Near&Dear, a company that creates e-cards for Baha’i holy days, special occasions of other faiths, and secular celebrations. Her e-cards are joyful and vibrant; they offer a splash of colour and a dash of love in our current virtual ways of communicating.
Maya kindly agreed to tell us a bit more about her e-cards but first, here’s a small sampling of what Near&Dear offers (be sure to click on each image to see how it is animated):
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I am a global citizen whose journey has taken me across continents – from Boston, America to the Australian island of Tasmania and the picturesque shores of Aotearoa New Zealand. From a young age, I had a belief in the oneness of all of humanity and exposure to people and places across the globe. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and a culture that treasures community, I found inspiration for a digital greeting card business that could connect people across borders, one card at a time.
Can you tell us a little bit about your ecards?
I wanted to create digital cards that were uplifting, classic, beautiful, and infused with a global perspective that reflected diverse cultures from around the world. Near&Dear cards highlight virtues, warm wishes and supportive messages and showcase a diversity of natural and cultural elements.
What inspired you to create them?
Having lived oceans away from family and friends for most of my life after my family moved, I understand how hard it can be to keep in touch when living physically far from loved ones. Sending a letter from Tasmania to Boston for instance, can sometimes take 4+ weeks in the mail, even in 2024!
Combining my love for digital design, culture and the joy of connecting people, I founded Near&Dear.
Could you tell us about the spiritual principles that inform your work and your ecard business?
Near&Dear’s mission is to strengthen the ties that bring us together and make us human. We want to be a celebration of cultural diversity and the shared experiences that unite us. We incorporate values in everything we do, especially in the messages we include in our cards. Some of the driving values behind Near&Dear are: empowerment, upliftment, the dignity and innate potential of every human being, connection, enthusiasm, and accessibility. We want to make sure that every card shows respect, love and honor to the person receiving it. We hope our cards resonate with people on a deeper level, enhancing their sense of love and connection with each other.
Thank, Maya, for taking the time to share this with us!
You can find Maya’s ecards on Near&Dear.
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Horizons is an online magazine of news, stories and reflections from around individuals, communities
and Baha’i institutions around Australia
Baha’i beliefs address essential spiritual themes for humanity’s collective and individual advancement. Learn more about these and more.
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