Zaadz - Socially Conscious Networking

Posted by Cyndy Aleo-Carreira on April 5th, 2007

When poking around MyBlogLog one day, I came across a social networking site that's been around since late 2005, yet seems to be generating some new buzz: Zaadz.

Zaadz is a comprehensive community site with over 48,000 members that's named the Dutch word for seed. Trying to boil down the driving force behind the site into a few sentences is nearly impossible; the front page text is nearly a page in itself. Here's what I do know: Zaadz is a modern online commune, in the truest sense of the word. Sponsored by organizations such as Oxfam, Kiva, Ashoka, and the One Campaign, Zaadzsters (as the site's members are called) appear to at least be trying to change the world.

Zaadz features include several email newsletters you can sign up for on topics ranging from vegetarianism to inspirational quotes, a community book list of favorite books relating to similar topics, an events calendar, an area to promote businesses in your area that are socially conscious (zPages), favorite quotes, and Pods, discussion groups formed by Zaadzters. Each Zaadzster also has a personal area to post a profile; share videos; photos, books, ideas, quotes, and goals; as well as have their own Zaadz blog.

I spoke with Zaadzster Voyager about his participation in the site, and he replied:

As European in an offline business..I still feel as digital immigrant. you asked me about Zaadz. well I feel the huge potential and power of a startup company here which has bright future. Check out the sites of CEO Brian Johnson, of his team, of investor John Mackay. The space for integral thinking and entrepreneurial spirit of all kind, of creating with imagination, boldness, integrity and appreciation of growth….all this is highly attractive for me.

The site can quickly become addictive with the community feel and amount of information being shared. I've been experiencing a huge burnout in social networking sites, especially niche sites, but Zaadz really drew me in with its upbeat tone and friendly Zaadzsters. Whether it's a common sense of purpose or something else, I'm not sure, but it's definitely fascinating. Whole Foods CEO John Mackey obviously feels the same way, as he's invested in the site himself. For more from Zaadz “Philosopher and CEO” Brian Johnson, you can see his interview on MSNBC.

Additional information from: Mashable  

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