Nancy learned to weave at the age of eight, while still in school. She started out making bread baskets, and over time, she taught her neighbors, cousins, and classmates to weave as well. By the age of seventeen, Nancy already had experience working with toquilla straw and making crafts, but she lacked a space where she could deliver her work and continue to grow. Then, a friend told her about the Unión Cañari Cooperative. 

Nancy arrived at the Cooperative with her weaved items and was warmly welcomed. Although at first, she only delivered her products for sale, she officially joined the Cooperative as a member two decades ago. Since then, Nancy has not only been weaving. She also shares her knowledge, supports other members, and continues to learn alongside them. 

Nancy is from the community of Cuitún, in the province of Cañar. Her community has been affected by migration; many people have left. “Quite a few have migrated, and only the older ones who know how to weave are left,” she shares. 

For Nancy, her participation in the DiO project “Women Walking Together,” has given her new hope for the future of weaving. She talks about exporting and dreams of reaching new markets and customers with her products.