Empower Peruvian Women Living in Poverty

Challenge

Peruvians living in marginalized communities often live in extreme poverty. Women lack formal education and are excluded from economic opportunities. Cusco has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in Peru, yet women depend financially on their husbands. Therefore, there are unequal gender power dynamics; women have little choice over their lives and finances. The Peruvian government offers some support for business start-ups; however, they are not affordable for poor communities.

Solution

Globalteer's Women's Empowerment Project aids women in starting businesses selling guinea pigs, or cuy, a traditional delicacy in high demand. The project was designed with local women's input, to ensure they receive the benefits. We train them in building and maintaining the cuy pens, budgeting and coping with financial emergencies. We provide emotional support and encouragement to the women, who have the chance to improve their families lives and break the cycles of poverty in their community.

Long-Term Impact

Helping women to secure sustainable incomes will give them financial independence and a stronger position in the household, personal confidence, increase the family's wealth and benefit members of the wider communities. Educated and empowered women will teach and inspire others, which will add to the growing awareness of women's rights and contribute to altering expectations of women. This will pave the way for future generations to have more freedom over their personal and financial lives.

Resources

• https:/​/​www.globalteer.org
• Globalteer's Women's Empowerment Project Website