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A fisherman supplier for SmartFish in Mexico

Social enterprises driving global change on World Food Day

Every year on 16 October, World Food Day highlights important topics such as food waste, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and the challenges faced by fishing communities — all in an effort to combat climate change. This year's theme is "Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future”. It's the perfect opportunity for us to shine a spotlight on the incredible efforts of social entrepreneurs, who are making everyday life better for so many people and how they're creating a more sustainable and inclusive world.

Hilo Sagrado banner

Delzur

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Delzur preserves the knowledge, culture, and traditions of Indigenous communities in La Guajira, Colombia

The northern province of La Guajira is the poorest region in Colombia, where over 60% of the population lives in poverty. Indigenous communities are disproportionately affected, with many facing limited access to basic needs including food, health care, and education. Delzur works with eight communities in this region and another four located in Cauca, la Sierra in Santa Marta, Putumayo and Amazonas. 

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Location
La Guajira, Colombia

Programme
South America Accelerator Programme
in partnership with NESsT

Website
www.hilosagrado.org

After agriculture, making and selling crafts is the most significant economic activity in Indigenous communities and the primary means of livelihood for many Indigenous women. Despite this, income opportunities often do not recognize their products, wisdom, and heritage. Indigenous women play a crucial role in preserving their cultures and protecting Indigenous territories that safeguard over 80% of the country's biodiversity and natural forests. Their craft is not just a means of livelihood but a profound connection to the earth and their cosmology.  

Delzur is an international fashion brand that weaves connections between Indigenous communities in the Colombian Amazon through products and experiences that honor their ancestral roots and preserve their natural and cultural heritage. Indigenous art created by more than 250 Indigenous community members. The brand targets US and European customers who seek high-quality, unique, authentic handcrafted products made by Indigenous producers.

By carefully positioning their quality handcrafted Indigenous products that celebrate traditional skills and cultural heritage, Delzur has been able to secure partnerships with high-end international companies and increase local producers’ income. 

As a NESsT portfolio enterprise, Delzur has the necessary resources to launch projects and activities and support the empowerment of Indigenous communities, giving them the autonomy to direct their path toward economic and social development. This is our aim: to contribute to gender equality, poverty eradication, and inclusive economic growth.

- Delzur leadership.
Programme support

The programme will support the Delzur team further in increasing the economic stability of Indigenous communities in Colombia while advancing the conservation of their heritage. Through one-on-one mentoring and business assistance, NESsT and IKEA Social Entrepreneurship will support Hilo Sagrado in establishing a new social enterprise model. The focus will be on transitioning into two separate brands and enhancing key areas such as strategic planning, investment readiness, and branding.