Balejimajawi: Artesanías del amanecer

WHAT IS BALEJIMAJAWI?

Balejimajawi is an artisanal craft group in Laguna San Ignacio, formed by five women from fishing families that support their families' economy through their sales.

HOW DID BALEJIMAJAWI COME TO BE?

Balejimajawi began its journey 14 years ago with a painting workshop conducted by a volunteer in their community.

At that time, they worked long hours at the sustainable oyster farm in Laguna San Ignacio but needed to earn more money.

One of the women who participated in the workshop realized they could make much more money with artisan crafts in less time (and physical demands). This motivated her to continue applying the skills she acquired, which inspired other women to join her in collaboration.

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In time, these women started selling their handmade crafts to tourists and soon noticed a significant surge in sales during whale watching season. This positive response served as a motivating factor for them to persist in their artistic endeavors.

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As time passed, they expanded their sales efforts to other communities, which led to the formal establishment of Balejimajawi.

This step marked their commitment to consolidating their presence and identity as a collective enterprise.

WHAT IS THEIR MAIN GOAL?

Through their sales, the artisans' main objective is to support their children's studies, improve the family economy, and reduce dependence on fishing as the main income source.

HOW HAS MARES COMUNIDAD SUPPORTED BALEJIMAJAWI?

The Mares Comunidad team has supported the artisan women of Balejimajawi through various means:

1. Project diagnosis: We have collaborated with the artisan women to analyze their project comprehensively. This evaluation has aided Balejimajawi in identifying areas for improvement.
2. ‍New artisan crafts techniques workshop: We organized a workshop where the women from Balejimajawi could learn new crafting techniques. Skilled instructors guided them through the workshop, enabling them to enhance their craft skills and expand their artistic repertoire.
3. Legal constitution support: We continue to assist Balejimajawi in their process to register as a Simplified Action Society (Sociedad de Acción Simplificada in Spanish), which is a figure offered by the Ministry of Economy and adapts very well to their needs as a group.
4. ‍Production of photos and videos: We have assisted Balejimajawi in capturing captivating photos and videos to promote their activities. These visual materials showcase their craft to attract wider attention to their work.
5. ‍Project management in Protected Natural Areas seminar: As part of our support, we organized a seminar on project management tailored to Protected Natural Areas' unique context. This seminar has provided artisan women with valuable insights and tools to effectively plan and execute their initiatives while ensuring the preservation and sustainability of the natural areas.

The Mares Comunidad team remains committed to supporting the artisan women of Balejimajawi on their journey toward success. We will continue collaborating closely with them, providing guidance, resources, and expertise to maximize their impact and ensure long-term sustainability.