ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOCUSED ON RECOVER THE CULTURAL MEANING OF AGAVE PLANT
An holistic project that seek for the recover of the cultural meaning of the agave plant and it´s products such as the Chawarmisqui, a pretty traditional drink of the ancestral cultures of the area.
The project
Agave plants grow in arid areas of the country and sometimes go unnoticed, but is actually a very valuable plant, it was food in difficult times for the Andean populations, during the colonial period. It is productive from the root to the tip of its leaves.
Shampoo can be made from the root; from the leaves the fiber of cabuya is obtained, to elaborate clothing or baskets; deep in the heart is the sap, with which jams, juices or distillates are made and the flower is used to prepare pickles.
Two of the main products are made of the heart of the plant, the chaguarmishqui or chawarmishki (agave honey) is really appreciated for the communities because of its nutritional and healing qualities. The miske or guarango (alcoholic drink similar to mezcal), on the other hand, has a cultural and artisanal value.
This project objective is recover, document and disseminate the ancestral knowledge of this plant and its derivatives.
Dates/Length
Project available year-round. 2 weeks to 6 months durations available.
Costs
2 weeks – $1750
1 month – $2300
2 months – $3400
3 months – $4500
Each extra week – $275
Location/ Accommodation
The project location is in Quito. Accommodation in Quito is with a local host family and it includes 2 meals per day: breakfast and dinner
Requirements
Basic spanish (A2), must be 18 and over, with valid passport and health insurance
Itinerary Sample
Mondays to Fridays
09:00 to 13:00 Work at the production plant
13:00 to 14:00 lunch and resting time.
14:00 to 17:00 work at the museum and research
17:00 Free time
Role of the Participant
Support the activities of the project like organizing and guiding at the museum, designing and elaborating products, assist at the researchs or help at the marketing area.
Skills required
A high level of Spanish is not necessary, willing to learn is a must. Participants must be open and flexible.
What’s Included?
Accomodation
Available during the length of the project (Either at the project or local homestay families with 2 meals included)
Transfer from Quito to project
Cellphone
Local cell phone is included with a refundable deposit of $50
Aiport pick-up
EcuaExplora staff ready to transport you
Support 24 hours
On the ground EcuaExplora staff available
First weekend accomodation
In a hostal in Quito with breakfast
Orientation
(includes city tour and lunch)
Not Included
Health insurance (REQUIRED)
Meals not specified
Transportation to/from the homestay to the project each day
Optional extras
Add $60 per week for 6 hours Spanish classes if in Quito.
