MEET "LAS MAMAS"
Hortencia, Zaida and Ellia
Their work centers on embroidery and handcrafted accessories—jewelry, purses, keychains, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings—often made from natural seeds believed to offer protection and bring good luck. They also create traditional Shipibo dolls.
They are among the elders of Cantagallo—deeply respected, resilient women. They do not read or write and speak only limited Spanish, yet they have built lives in Lima and are grateful to finally have a voice. For many years, they lived on the margins, quietly witnessing a rapidly changing world and the rise of technology. They own cell phones but use them only minimally.
They have shared that they long carried a sense of shame for not having attended school, which made adapting to modern life more challenging. Their knowledge is entirely experiential, rooted in lived tradition. Despite the hardships they’ve faced, they are incredibly warm and joyful—quick to laugh, with a contagious sense of humor.
