SKIC founder, Shyam, recently traveled to Chile to visit our sites in Lebu and Tirua. Tirua, our new site, lies in a remote area in the Mapuche heartland. The isolated town provides fewer economic opportunities for its people—all the more important for us to maximize our impact in providing local women with microloans. The excitement and enthusiasm of the women there was palpable, and Shyam came back thrilled that SKIC is expanding into new territory. Experience some of the people and places that make up #SKIC Chile through photos:
This SKIMIFI recipient knits clothing from wool and plant-base dyes. She is standing in front of a shop in Tirua that displays her products.
Senora Jessica stitches clothing in Tirua and is looking at her new machine purchased with a microfinance loan from SKIMFI. She can now stitch with more efficiency and quality, allowing her to earn more.
Some of the Tirua beneficiaries at a get-together. The bread is homemade and the local cheese is made and sold by one of our beneficiaries.
Our project manager, Anita, going over the performance of one of our beneficiaries.
A SKIMFI stitching done by Jessica on her new machine.
This recipient makes clothing and household decorations on this ancient machine called a “rocua.” It is traditional for Mapuche people and is rarely used nowadays, with knowledge of usage dwindling. Through our support she is succeeding and keeping this skill alive.
A wool and plant-based dye product.
Some of the SKIMFI participants of Tirua.
Senora Judith of Lebu is posing in front of her freezer of local ingredients that she will prepare to cater at fairs and around town. Before her SKIMFI loan, she was unemployed and suffering from health issues. Now she is earning good money, running around and selling her food all across the area, and creating employment for two assistants.
