Our Artisan Studio is a hub of creativity and restoration, offering survivors of domestic violence a safe place for counseling, support, and the chance to develop marketable skills. This community brings healing and hope to women who need it most. Through the sale of handcrafted items, we help preserve traditional craftsmanship while creating pathways to stable, dignified livelihoods for these skilled artisans. 

In the region we serve, two out of every three women have experienced domestic abuse. Behind this heartbreaking reality are mothers and children seeking safety, healing, and a chance to rebuild their lives. For many survivors, the greatest barrier to breaking free is economic dependence. They long to leave, but without a way to support themselves and their children, they often feel trapped.

To help break this cycle, our social enterprise, Sumak, provides women with a pathway to independence in a safe and supportive environment. At the Sumak Women’s Artisan Studio, survivors create beautiful Kichwa-style jewelry for a fair wage while also participating in support groups and counseling. Through Sumak women grow stronger - not only financially, but emotionally and relationally as well.

Kichwa is the language and culture of the indigenous peoples in this part of Ecuador. In Kichwa, sumak means “well-made.” Our vision is to restore each women’s sense of self-worth while honoring the beauty of their well-made artisan products. The Santiago Partnership has been pursuing this vision since 2010. In recent years, our work has expanded to also serve men, addressing the broader cycle of domestic abuse. In 2024 alone, we walked alongside more than 80 survivors on their journey to freedom.

When you support our online store, you help provide freedom from violence while celebrating the artistry and resilience of Ecuadorian survivors. Each purchase tells a story of courage, hope, and restoration.