Women in Rural Ecuador Go Green and Grow Strong

What happens when women turn banana leaves and cocoa shells into something beautiful and useful? In the rural town of Caluma, Ecuador, nine determined women—led by single mother and community volunteer Laura Quiñonez—are doing just that. With support from our $500 Giving Joy micro grant, these women are transforming agricultural waste into eco-friendly packaging for traditional foods like sweets, chocolates, chicken tongas, and fish buns.

Laura, who supports her two children by growing crops like cassava, bananas, and cocoa, is also a passionate volunteer with the Fundación de Desarrollo Integral y Amparo Social Caluma. Together with other women heads of households, she’s creating new income opportunities while promoting sustainability in their community.

The group began with hands-on training in food handling and the use of organic materials for packaging. They learned to work with cocoa shells, bijao leaves, and banana leaves—materials that are usually discarded—to design attractive, environmentally friendly packaging.

The women even helped design their own product labels, giving their brand a unique identity that celebrates both tradition and innovation.

Participants like María, a migrant woman from Colombia, say the project has changed their lives. With her new skills and growing confidence, she’s now helping to lead the effort and inspire others. The impact has already reached 48 people—eight women directly and their families—by providing skills, tools, and a path toward greater economic independence.

Looking ahead, the group plans to begin full production, sell at local markets and online, and expand their outreach to more women in the community. Their vision is clear: a sustainable business that uplifts women, protects the environment, and inspires others to take action.

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