5.1 End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere
5.5 Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership
Run by the newly established Madre Oliva Association, this program is a continuation of previous projects aimed at empowering women in the communities of Zaña, Nuevo Mocupe and Aviación. While continuing to provide a space for women to come together for practical and emotional support, the project also provides training in artisan and small business skills. The women work with local artists and draw on local cultural traditions to produce handicrafts for fairs and the tourist market.
“It’s not just about the skills we’re developing, like embroidery or knitting, although we’ve learned that, too,” says Onelia, a program participant. “We talk about self-esteem, how we feel as women, as mothers, how to become active in our communities.”
“Everything we’ve been doing, it’s not just for us personally but for our community.”