From the moment I laid eyes on a shoe, I was intrigued by the potential it held. Not just as footwear, but as an opportunity. My name is Tomáš Baťa, and this is the story of how I transformed a small family shoe workshop in the town of Zlín, Czechia, into a global footwear giant. It wasn't merely about crafting a shoe; it was about providing quality, affordability, and a vision for a better future. I always believed in the principle, “Our customer, Our Master”. It was crucial to understand their needs, ensuring each shoe brought both comfort and style to their lives. This belief led me to introduce several innovations, which are now standard in the shoe industry. But my journey wasn’t just about shoes; it was about the community and its people. In the early 1900s, Zlín was transformed from a sleepy town into a bustling urban centre. Inspired by the garden cities in England, I desired to create a model city around the Baťa Shoe Company. The town had schools, hospitals, and modern apartments for workers, reflecting my vision of improving the lives of everyone connected with the business. My mantra, "Work collectively, live individually," became the foundation for the company's unique organizational structure. Leadership wasn't about hierarchy; it was about mentorship and fostering innovation at every level. Sadly, I met an untimely end in a plane crash in 1932, but my spirit lives on. My half-brother, Jan, and then my son, Tomáš Jr., carried on my legacy, steering the company through challenging times, including the World Wars and the nationalization during the communist era. Today, the Baťa brand stands strong, with stores spanning continents. But at its heart, it remains true to its origins – driven by a commitment to quality, community, and the core values I laid down. I am Tomáš Baťa, and though I am no longer here, every Baťa shoe carries with it a part of my dream, my vision, and my relentless pursuit of betterment for all.