The Waorani lived in the Amazonian Rainforest unaware of the modern world until the 1950s. Through their weaving they have kept their culture alive and the traditional techniques have been passed from mothers to daughters for thousands of years.

The women’s group ÖMERE create elegant handmade products that preserve ancestral knowledge and, through sustainable management of the plants they use, also guarantee the protection of their unique culture and their rainforest home.

Their innate joy shows in their crafts created while sharing community around the fire, singing, telling stories, and laughing.

“I always think of my grandmother when I am in the jungle collecting the chambira palm fiber and plants to color the weaving.  My children come with me and, as we work together, we are living the traditions of our culture.”

Romelia (Waorani woman)