In our “progressive” modern world, women continue tobe discouraged from pursuing many of their hopes and dreams, especially in the developing world.

Huarmirazu meaning “women of the ice-capped peaks,” in quichua, was an effort for Ecuadorian women to reclaim themselves as powerful, strong women able to climb mountains and fulfill their aspirations.

On February 18, 2001 the first indigenous women of Ecuador reached the summit of Volcano Cotopaxi...the highest most active volcano in the world just shy of 20,000 ft.  Four Andean women and two American women all joined together to climb in celebration of women worldwide.

The ascent was also an effort to raise awareness of issues impacting health, environment and community development.   The first “Huarmirazu” ascent took place during the winter solstice of 1999 in which a

friend and myself climbed Chimborazo, a massive extinct volcano known as the furthest point from the core of the earth.  The climb was a success and we were able to raise over $1,000, which turned into a direct investment into Andean women’s projects.

“Mushumuyo,” quichua for “The New Seed” was born as a result of the successful climb.  Mushu Muyo is a great example of community participation, empowerment and sustainable development.  A group of young women developed a business in which they turn garbage into art turning that into income.  These creative artisans recycle paper into beautiful art and the project had brought in desperately needed income for women and their families providing an economic alternative that relies on protection rather than destruction of our environment and health.  Rosa Elena Moreta, who is president of Mushumuyo, has played an active role in the growth and sustainability of the business. A poverty stricken community where resources are scarce are now participating in a project that generates a sustainable income.  The artisans now have funding for proper nutrition, medicine and yes, the girls are the first in the community to put themselves through high school.

After touching snow for the first time in her life and summitting the massive Cotopaxi, Rose Elena returned to her community to educate others on her experience and how the ascent has empowered her and impacted her life.  Rose Elena feels capable of accomplishing many things that she had never dreamed of.  This is an excellent example of community participation and empowerment and how the amazing experience is contagious to others in the community. 

Since the ascent others have shown interest in joining in with Mushu Muyo’s business creating their own employment and have found solutions to their own problems.  The group has obtained sustainability on a local level and has begun to export to other countries. 

Rosa Elena will be climbing the Cayambe a technical glacier located outside of her community, which is the third highest volcano in Ecuador.  The climb will be a fund raising ascent for the children of her community to expand the business and help others to work, generate income using art as an activity that is no where close to hard labor that many children are subjected to.

The next Huarmirazu ascent is anticipated for December 2001 for Mt. Aconcagua located on the Argentinean/Chilean border.  They would be the first Indigenous women to summit the highest mountain in the American continent since the Incas and Aymaras!