Hello this is William and Michell writing tonight. Today we learned about how small business work in Guano, also known as the Ecuadorian business capital. We went to Fabrica Cerquie (Quinoa factory) where we met Eduardo and Jonathan. We also went to Calzado Arevalo and met Dora and Vicente at their shoe factory. Something we learned is that primarily older people work labor-intensive jobs since younger generations are starting to choose jobs in the cities. COVID also made a huge impact at the shoe factory, decreasing their workforce from 20 workers down to only 3. One aspect that touched our hearts was the multitude of dangers associated with Dora’s and Vicente’s jobs, ranging from toxin exposure to injuries from making the shoes. Additionally, Vicente’s work with gasoline in close proximity to fire poses hazardous risks that highlight their courage and determination.
We are most proud of being able to take care of the group on such a busy and eventful day, from visiting factories all the way to beginning our Community Action Project, where we assessed the needs of the school and to began to dicuss what will we need to begin our project. As for our peers, we are proud of them for being engaged and asking many questions to our guest speakers. Dora was the most inspiring person of the day due to her patience with teaching us the process of shoemaking. Although there were many challenges today, being the Líder Del Día was overall an amazing and rewarding experience for us.
Overall, we had an awesome day with our group. Be ready for our next post tomorrow.
William & Michell
Digital Camera
Digital Camera
What an amazing day! And great job Will and Michell for the great recap. I am so glad you are all learning and becoming part of the community. I am so excited to read more about your community project. Miss you Will!!
Thank you so much for the update and pictures! Your photos allow us to feel more connected to the amazing experiences you are all having. What a great opportunity to see how a few local businesses operate in the region and community. We are looking forward to hearing about your upcoming Community Action Project and what y’all plan on doing! Eden, it was so nice to hear your voice on the phone the other day and to hear what a great time you are having! We miss you lots while at the same time, we are very happy you are having this unique adventure! XO, Mom and Dad
Fantastic!!!!!!!!!!1. The pictures are just wonderful. Quite an experience you all are having. We look forward to hours and hours of hearing about what you have experienced. We love you to pieces
Nana AND POP
Great pictures! Glad you are learning about the industries and small businesses. Can’t wait to see more posts. All is well on the homefront. EJ, We miss our “chef & dish washer” LOL. Love, Mom
We appreciate these pictures!
I’m glad to see everyone engaged in learning about the local economy. Most importantly, I’m excited to see what you guys will do for the CAP.
We’re so proud of you Emily! We’re counting down the days until you come back, hopefully with lots of gifts hehe 👁️👅👁️
Lola you look so happy. Everybody looks great.
Fabulous! Thanks William & Michell for the interesting recap and nice pics. It helps me to understand and feel. Great experience!! Looking forward to seeing your community Action Project. Enjoy 🙂
Thank you very much for the pictures. Aidan seeing your face brings a smile to my day. I look forward to reading your intro and when it’s your turn for leader of the day. Love you very much. Mom/Pop
Thank you for sharing. Ella – what was in your hand?! I know you are brave and that looks like an insect! Ack! Looking forward to hearing about more of your adventures!