An Inspiring Fair Trade Experience In Huaycan, Peru

I spent two months in Huaycan, Peru and these two months were so special. I was working in Detroit, MI at a textile studio and wanted to travel and expand my knowledge on Latin American textile history and current practices. I became interested in textiles partly because I learned about the issues around human rights and the environment. I was interested in Huaywasi because I knew they personally worked with 7 artisan women. Knowing about the hands of the person behind the things we buy is so important and I loved that Huaywasi felt the same way. As the Fashion Design and Business Development Intern I was able to directly work with Huaywasi's artisan partners on designs, but I was also able to gain professional experience with marketing, content planning, and publishing my writing for blog posts. Jill, the current Huaywasi manager, was a blast to work with and made the feeling in the office so bright.

Some things to know about this internship/volunteer position is that you need to be self motivated. You may be working in the office on your own a bit, as well as traveling to Gamarra, the textile district in Lima.

My opinions felt valued in this position and my ideas for content, or designs was taken seriously.