Gabriela, affectionately known as “Gaby,” has transformed the challenges of her life into an opportunity to grow and empower other women. Today, Gaby runs her own basket-making business, an art she learned from her mother and has taken to various markets.

“This art was passed down to me by my mom,” she says proudly while showing one of her latest pieces. “Thanks to her, today I am a successful entrepreneur.”

However, the journey hasn´t been easy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Gaby had to pause her business, which severely impacted the income for herself, her mother, and her 10-year-old daughter. “The situation was tough for everyone, and especially for us entrepreneurs,” she recalls. Gabriela faced not only economic pressures but also the emotional impact of these circumstances.

It was through a neighbor that she came to know IEPADES (local partner), where she received comprehensive support to confront violence against women and the impact of the economic crisis. Later, she joined the Mujeres Tejiendo Vidas Libres de Violencia (Women Weaving Lives Free from Violence) project, where she was selected for the cash transfer program.

For Gaby, the impact of the project goes beyond financial support. The workshops and training transformed the way she saw herself. “Before, I didn’t dare to dream big, but now I know I can achieve it. This project taught me that violence is not normal and that I should not accept it.”

With the cash transfer, Gaby was able to reinvest in her business. “I bought better materials and increased my production capacity,” she explains. With the income she now generates, she can ensure the well-being of her family and participate in entrepreneurship fairs where she has found new markets.

The success of her business has allowed her to help other women in her community. “I teach them how to make the baskets, provide the materials, and pay them for their work. It’s my way of giving back what this project has given me,” she says with satisfaction.

Gaby dreams of continuing to grow. She hopes to have a larger and more suitable space for her business, where customers can see her creations. In the meantime, she continues to sell through social media and local fairs. “My dream is to train more women and offer them the hand that helped me so much,” she affirms.

With each basket she creates, Gabriela generates income and hope. “I want more women like me to discover that they have the strength and courage to change their lives,” she concludes with a smile.