There’s a familiar face around here that you may recognize from photos and videos that we have shared before. This month on the Journal we would like to introduce you to Yolanda. A talented backstrap weaver and embroiderer, Yolanda appreciates the impact that her work has had on her personally as well as on her family.

Yolanda joined Mayamam Weavers just over 18 years ago when her sister Cleta let her know about an opening. Up until then, she had worked with her family in the fields, planting, weeding and harvesting potatoes, cabbage and corn. Yolanda shared that working with family is very different than working in a cooperative. She felt a warm welcome by the women and has really enjoyed the camaraderie, getting to laugh about little things throughout the day.

Yolanda is 49 years old and the proud mother of Nina, her 8 year old daughter. Nina is in first grade, she’s on the honor roll and she has been the flag bearer since kindergarten. Yolanda didn’t have the opportunity to go to school but she studied reading and writing in an in-house literacy program when she began working with Mayamam Weavers. She’s very proud of her daughter’s education so far which began in the preschool run by Grupo Cajolá, the community development organization that Mayamam Weavers is a part of. Yolanda was able to work independently while her daughter was cared for and learning which often is not always the case for mothers in Cajolá.

Yolanda is confident that education is having a great impact on Nina and her future. She has learned a lot about making friends, recognizing the alphabet, counting, and numbers. Being in the program prepared her quite a bit since Yolanda, without an education, was unable to help her. When Nina entered kindergarten in the public school, she was given the honor of leading the class because of the knowledge she had before starting. Now she continues to be part of Grupo Cajolá’s afterschool program, attending for two hours every day to help with her homework and other activities.

Working and having a reliable salary has allowed Yolanda to be financially independent, supporting herself and her family. As Yolanda shared, “Having a salary gives me the opportunity to help my family and give my daughter what I didn't have when I was little. Having my own money gives me peace of mind because it provides economic security for me and my family. I can buy the things my daughter and I need.”

Yolanda points out the benefits of Grupo Cajolá have also impacted her extended family. Her niece and nephew are receiving scholarships to pursue their goals, one is now in college studying to be an architect, the other is studying nursing. Both attended the afterschool program when they were in elementary school. 

After more than 18 years with Mayamam Weavers, Yolanda has seen firsthand the economic, emotional, and educational benefits that come from having the opportunity to work, earn an income, and be part of a supportive community. Most of all, she is grateful that these opportunities have allowed her to give her daughter something she never had herself: the chance to learn, grow, and dream about her future.