Introducing Gloria

Mayamam Weavers coop is made up of foot loom weavers, backstrap weavers and seamstresses. Together the three groups consist of 23 members, all women (of course!). We like to introduce you to the artisans so you can see who is behind the beautiful work of Mayamam Weavers. This month, say hello to Gloria.

Gloria started working with Mayamam Weavers at the beginning of 2023. Before that she mostly worked at home taking care of her house and children. She had gone to school through high school. Once she got married, she was unable to continue studying. She had heard about the weavers in Cajolá and eventually decided she would ask about a job even though she wasn’t really sure how she would fit in. At the time of her interview, there was a position open for a foot loom weaver which they offered to her. She said at first there was quite a learning curve and it was difficult for her to keep the threads from breaking. Without prior weaving experience, it was challenging to learn, but she’s happy to say she did it! Now with more than two years of weaving experience under her belt, preparing the loom and laying the yarn, she is confident with her weaving skills.

Gloria is the proud mother to two girls; Issel is 10 and Francisca  is 7 years old. They both attend elementary school in the mornings and Grupo Cajolá’s Learning Center in the afternoons, where they receive help with their homework while Gloria is working. With the money Gloria earns, she is able to cover her household expenses and also give her daughters more opportunities. Her dream is that her daughters will both continue studying and find their own careers.

Gloria doesn’t just weave—she also leads. As treasurer of the cooperative and secretary of the savings circle, she helps manage group finances. The savings circle is a voluntary group where members contribute funds, which can be borrowed at low interest. At year’s end, earnings are shared equally, helping everyone save for big purchases or emergencies.

While Gloria may have been hesitant to join Mayamam Weavers to begin with, everyone is very grateful that she did. If you're interested in meeting some of the other artisans, check out Introducing Brenda, Introducing Sonia or Introducing Gladis.