Awamaki

Awamaki

Peru

Awamaki works with indigenous Peruvian populations in the district of Ollantaytambo. Located in the Sacred Heart region of the country, this agricultural population is largely uneducated, and many speak only the indigenous language of Quechua. Awamaki works with community members to create economic opportunity and improve social well-being, while providing education programs and building grants. Men often leave the rural area to find work and leave women behind to take care of farms and children, creating a need for work that can be done from home around household duties. These hand-made textiles are created from locally sourced alpaca fiber and natural dyes, making them eco-friendly as well as fair trade.