Why is this project important?
The Cacataibo is a minority indigenous group that has lived since ancient times in the Peruvian Amazon. Also known as the people of the forest, the Cacataibo are custodians of the forest and also depend on the services it provides to them, such as clean water, fish and game. They also face many challenges, including poverty, marginalization, and low educational opportunities.
Women in this community have asked for our help. They want to improve their handicrafts and turn them into a business opportunity. Through this project, they will gain access to training and collaboration opportunities. This will improve their livelihood by providing them with an alternative income source that is true to their culture and identity.
Planned activities
Members of the "Asociación de Mujeres Artesanas Emprendedoras de la Comunidad Nativa Sinchi Roca" will be trained in the design, production and marketing of fashion accessories (handicrafts). To achieve this, we will join forces with Peruvian designers to help the Cacataibo artisans produce the first line of fashion accessories. We aim to have a co-creational process that leads to market-ready fashion items that are true to Cacatibo culture and sustainable.
Planned activities also include the habilitation of an Atelier, including the construction of a storage room, the improvement of the electrical system and the maintenance of all necessary sewing machines and production equipment.
Last, a launching campaign will include the participation of the artisans in a local fair and connecting them to local markets.
Read more about this project in this downloadable document.
Contact person: Dr Mariana Vidal Merino (m.vidal@bluoverda.org)
Project Theory of Change
The Theory of Change of this project has been co-created with the women of the artisan association of the Cacataibo community.
The project came to life thanks to the generous donations of more than 50 people during a crowdfunding campaign organized by BluoVerda in February and March 2023. This video was part of the campaign and shows the community, the project participants and explains more about what we are trying to achieve. Enjoy!