Employing Rural Women

During the past quarter, the members of the artisan ceramic workshop “Las Mariposas” have improved their production and quality; they re-distributed mold and product manufacturing activities amongst themselves, increasing the level of production. They also introduced new painting designs that were well received by their market clients and sold their decoration products to primary schools in the region for handcraft classes. The workshop has two new members who have already received training in mold making, casting, and decoration, and was recently visited by a few groups.

On October 27th the women visited Centro Tierra Sierra Gorda and participated in the training workshop entitled “Basic Management for Microenterprises”. They were provided with tools that enable them to adequately manage their income and expenses, and keep a good record of their sales and purchases. During the training workshop they met other members of the Sierra Gorda Service Network and as a result of this exchange two small restaurants that form part of the Flavor Trail made an order of personalized ceramic plates and cups. Furthermore, they made an agreement with Restaurant Las Manzanitas located in Pinal de Amoles, where they will now establish an additional point of sale.

In October, the women also exhibited and sold their products at the Festival de las Huastecas that took place in Jalpan de Serra. They also agreed to sale their products on a regular basis in tourist areas in Escanelilla, Pinal de Amoles, and Union of Guadalupe in Aquismón, San Luis Potosí.

Currently they are fixing-up a warehouse, where they will install a rustic style exhibition room with a space for food preparation and will offer this additional service to visitors who want to participate in the ceramic production workshops.