Makers – South America

Our heritage is reflected in Ayacucho embroidery passed from generation to generation.
At the foothills of the Peruvian Andes, a group of resilient women continue a tradition of Ayacucho embroidery and weaving passed down through generations. They are spread across 12 communities in the region but are bound by a shared culture, artistic heritage and a history of violent civil upheaval. 

For decades, Peru suffered through armed internal conflict that saw communities terrorized and families torn apart.  Many women endured years of physical, pschological and sexual violence.  Yet, through it all, over 400 women across the Ayacucho region emerged as artisan entrepreneurs using their artistic skill and heritage to rebuild their lives.  They are led by a team of three sisters that lost their respected family tannery in the wake of domestic terrorism.  
Through their work, these women have overcome civil unrest and domestic violence to emerge independent and empowered. Each hand-stitched thread tells a story of culture, resilience and sisterhood.

Peru’s native Shipibo tribes are known for their strong cultural heritage, unique cosmology and their unmistakable ceramic arts. Unfortunately, Shipibo villagers also suffer from extreme poverty, and most live without access to basic education and medical care in poor villages along the Río Ucayali, a tributary of the Amazon River. Manos Amigas (Friendly Hands) works with the Shipibo villagers to develop their traditional craft and helps export their vases, sculpture and ornaments to the United States and Europe. Manos Amigas also offers free courses in design, accounting and business marketing and helps artisans identify new markets for their crafts.

Manos Amigas donates 20% of its profits to education and other social programs and helps youth living in Peru’s remote highlands continue their education through scholarships and financial assistance. The remaining 80% of the Manos Amigas’ profit goes directly to the artisan, most often as a 50-70% advance with the balance paid upon delivery and quality control. This wage is far above the national standard and helps Shipibo villagers improve their standard of living and provide for the future

Candela is leading the way to a better future for people and the planet. Headquartered in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, our company has spent 30 years connecting the bounty of the rainforest to clean beauty rituals. And we continue to lead the industry as an ethical and socially responsible natural and organic supplier.
 
Our history is steeped in a deep commitment to biodiversity, regenerative practices, and fair trade principles. Every bit of the butters and oils we make come from local and indigenous producers. By supporting these small suppliers that wildcraft, cultivate, and sustainably harvest the best that the Andes and Amazon have to offer, we are able to enhance and empower the communities they come from. We do this by putting 100% of our surplus back into the environment and the lives of the people who protect it.
 
Creating high-quality products that work to conserve and restore the rainforest and local communities.