This project will organize and train a cooperative of rural impoverished women to be Spanish teachers. Though tourism is a powerful economic force in the area, rural poor women have little access to the economic opportunities that it brings. Meanwhile, despite the many tourists in the area, many of whom want to study Spanish, the closest Spanish school is 30 minutes away. As Spanish teachers, women will be able to participate in the tourist economy and earn an income to support their families.
The town of Ollanta is located just outside of Machu Picchu. Tourism is a powerful economic force here, driving significant growth in the past few years. However, economic changes in Ollantaytambo fail to change the lives of the most marginalized populations, like women and the rural poor. Responsible for all childcare and heavy domestic chores, women especially are unable to access economic opportunities. Paid work currently available to most women is part-time and menial.
By training women to be Spanish teachers and helping them organize a cooperative, Awamaki will enable the women to earn a comfortable income that is nearly eight times what they may currently make. Moreover, employment with the cooperative is part-time and flexible, allowing them to care for their families as needed. Finally, participation in the cooperative will provide financial security through the cooperative's common fund, as well as health care through Awamaki's health program.
This project initially trains 15 women in need to be Spanish teachers. These women currently have no reliable income with which to care for their children and pay for their schooling and health care. By providing them with education and an income, the project will change their lives and the lives of their families. In the long term, the Spanish teacher's cooperative that this project creates will grow, take on new teachers, and change the lives of more and more women.
I decided to pursue the course because it was the only chance for me and my children. It was really a gift from God because everything was for free. I wondered: who gives you a future for free?
- Martha Ballesteros Holgado, Participant teacher from partner organization
Total Funding Received to Date: $7,552
Remaining Goal to be Funded: $1,948
Total Funding Goal: $9,500
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Ollantaytambo,
Cusco
Peru
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