Reflections W3
Ideating and prototyping our solutions was the primary focus of Week 3. This involved firming up our agreement with Selina, the accommodation we are residing in, to distribute the traditional garments and artefacts produced by the mothers of the Shipibo Konibo community. Additionally, our group are looking to see the likely success of a cultural fair held monthly at Selina - would it close the gap on the necessary funds the Shipibo Konibo community currently struggle? As it stands they lack the ability to provide adequate nutrition to Children. These ideas have germinated not only from our first-hand experiences with the community, but also through a collaboration with Killa, another student-run team focusing on sustainable fashion. More directly, our group are looking to see whether we could introduce local food sources: fruits, vegetables and legumes into the daily meal preparations for children. The Indigenous community's support with our solutions has received a somewhat successful response. This has required us to adopt an empathetic approach when speaking to mothers of the community - understanding more about the cultural and historical significance of their garments has been crucial; I've learned to respect that whilst wide-scale production would be a surefire way to financial freedom for the community, this completely digresses from the very intent and purpose of their artificats. Sensitivity to the intricate design making process has enabled me to balance the practicality and idealistic nature of our solutions with the cultural sensitivity of the community.
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