Thousands of Embera families have been forced to flee their villages due to violence from armed groups, leaving them displaced in Medellín. Many struggle to survive in the city due to language barriers and limited access to formal education. To meet their daily needs, some resort to begging or selling their handmade Embera-style jewelry on the streets. Unfortunately, this puts them at risk of exploitation, abuse, and dangerous situations.

The Embera Bead Project takes a holistic approach to supporting the Embera community—addressing both their immediate humanitarian needs and providing dignified work opportunities with educational support. In 2022, in collaboration with Reincorporated NFP and Sueños y Huellas Del Mañana, we opened Casa Embera—a safe community space granted rent-free by the Medellín Mayor’s Office. Casa Embera offers:

•After-school programs for children

•Health and Hygiene class for new mothers

•Fair trade jewelry workshops

•Nutritional and medical assistance