Empathy: A Coin Stash Design Promoting Connection and Giving

A Unique Coin Bank Inspired by the Muslim Culture of Zakat

Empathy is more than just a coin bank; it is a tangible representation of the act of giving. The design features a divider that separates coins into two areas: personal savings in the opaque section and the charitable amount in the glass dome. As the user fills up the personal savings area, each subsequent coin deposited will fall into the charitable area. This clever mechanism suggests that only once you have enough for yourself, can you afford to provide more for others.

The concept behind Empathy is rooted in the Muslim culture of Zakat, which is a form of alms-giving treated as a religious tax. Zakat aims to provide for the poor and those living without means of livelihood, ensuring they can meet their basic needs. By incorporating this cultural practice into a coin bank, Empathy allows users to experience the act of giving and develop empathy towards those less fortunate.

The design of Empathy showcases the thoughtful craftsmanship of Brandon Yeo. The concave brass top is metal stamped, while the body is made from ABS extrusion. The brass separator, which attaches to the glass bowl, is lathed out with a screw thread and secured with a rubber washer to prevent it from falling out. The dimensions of Empathy are H - 250mm and W - 100mm, and it is made using ABS, brass, and glass.

Creating Empathy presented unique challenges for Yeo, who comes from a Buddhist background. To truly understand and respect the Muslim culture and religion, he immersed himself in research and engaged with the Muslim community. Yeo visited mosques and spoke to many Muslim individuals, seeking to comprehend their beliefs, experiences, and the essence of Islam. This empathetic approach allowed him to create a design that authentically reflects the values of Zakat and promotes understanding across cultures.

Empathy has received recognition for its innovative and practical design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2019 in the Furniture Design category. This prestigious award honors creations that meet professional and industrial requirements while integrating industry best practices and technical characteristics. Empathy's design fulfills these criteria and contributes to a better world by fostering empathy and encouraging acts of kindness.

Empathy serves as a reminder that no act of giving is too small. By visualizing the impact of their contributions, users are inspired to continue giving and help those in need. This unique coin bank not only promotes empathy but also celebrates the beauty of different cultures and religions, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.