Rockflower has partnered with Casa Congo and the Tejedoras, a group of local women in El Astillero, Nicaragua, to develop a pilot project to kickstart a women's collective, which will provide these women more opportunities to expand upon their business ideas with access to credit. The Tejedoras have already demonstrated their willingness and capacity for enterprising economic advancement through the manufacturing of local crafts.

Pilot project kickoff meeting. Photo: Timothy Nathan

The first phase of the pilot project began in late July with an early stage investment into a juice and smoothie bar. The Tejedoras will be trained in all aspects of juice, smoothie and ice-cream production and will be responsible for the day to day running and management of the venture.

One of the tejedoras hand weaving a purse out of recycled plastic bags. Photo: Timothy Nathan

Phase Two will build on the successes and lessons learned from this pilot project and additional resources will be provided for the creation of vegetable gardens, training in bamboo construction and other income generating ideas with a clear focus on conservation and sustainable living.

Read more about the Casa Congo/Rockflower Women's Collective at Astillero.

The tejedoras together with Casa Congo team members and one of Rockflower's Youth advisors.