Cecilia Chiroy is a basket artisan from rural Guatemala whose determination has helped create opportunities not only for herself, but for many women in her community.
Like many Indigenous Maya women, Cecilia learned traditional handcraft skills at a young age. After finishing school, she worked in agricultural fields and explored different income-generating opportunities, but found that inconsistent orders and low wages made it difficult to earn a reliable living.
Determined to find a better path, Cecilia repeatedly traveled long distances seeking partnerships that would value her work and provide fair compensation. Her persistence eventually led her to connect with Mayan Hands, where she and other women began producing handcrafted pine needle products. As their skills grew, they advanced from simple designs to more intricate baskets, developing the craftsmanship and quality standards that have made their work highly sought after today.
Recognized by her peers as a natural leader, Cecilia was elected to lead her artisan group. She helps coordinate production, supports fellow artisans, and shares her knowledge with other women. Through her leadership, basket weaving has become a source of income and community connection for many families.
For Cecilia, consistent income has provided more than financial stability—it has created opportunities to plan for the future, support her family, and continue her education. Her story is a powerful example of how fair trade partnerships can help women build sustainable livelihoods and strengthen their communities.
Story adapted from an artisan profile originally published by Mayan Hands. Source: Kelly, Anne. "Artisan Profile: Cecilia Chiroy." Mayan Hands, December 8, 2019.