Bolivia: Asociación de Arte Indígena “Inca Pallay”

About the local hosting organization

Inca Pallay is a non-profit association dedicated to supporting indigenous weavers, primarily women living in extreme rural poverty in the Jalq’a and Yampara ethnic regions near Sucre. Comprising over 200 artisans, the association focuses on preserving local culture while providing members with the opportunity to earn vital additional income through the production and sale of native textiles. Operating under Fair Trade principles, Inca Pallay ensures fair compensation for its weavers, often exceeding local market rates, thereby enabling them to improve their economic conditions and share their cultural heritage. To facilitate this, Inca Pallay actively engages in market research, cultivates international partnerships, and provides technical assistance and training to its associates. The organization also spearheads promotion and external trade efforts, including establishing connections with European countries and securing participation in local and international fairs. These initiatives ensure that the high-quality textiles produced by the indigenous artisans reach a wider market, contributing to both their economic well-being and the continued expression of their unique cultural identity.

Presentation of the programme

Participate in local and national fairs, travel to the countryside to follow the production process and assist staff in these various tasks. Update and monitor the website about the products they promote. Propose new ways to promote and market indigenous textile products.

About the accomodation

Host family

About the location

Sucre

Requirements

The volunteer has to have knowledge or interest in the field of fair trade, computing and communication. Interest to know about the textiles from the indigenous. An intermediate level of Spanish is required.