SDGs Goals: 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth, 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities, 12. Responsible Consumption and Production, 17. Partnership for the Goals

Sharielle is a 15-year-old student of Caninguan National High School in Barangay Caninguan, Lambunao, Iloilo, Philippines. She is a consistent with high honor student since 7th grade; a leader, and a proud member of the IP community in the Municipality of Lambunao. The Panay Bukidnon in the Visayas, Philippines are facing significant challenges, impacting women’s livelihoods, as younger generations are not engaged in traditional practices.

Sharielle’s project, titled “Kubo ng Kultura,” addresses the issue in terms of preserving the rich culture and tradition of Panay Bukidnon people as well as providing IP women with source of income to support their families through these traditional handcrafts; basket weaving and “panubok” (also known as embroidery). This project will take place at Barangay Caninguan, Lambunao, Iloilo, Philippines.

Sharielle’s project will offer training workshops and exhibitions to enhance IP women’s skills and showcase their handcrafted products. Sharielle seeks partnerships with local schools, organizations, and NGOs like Baryo Balangaw to empower women and rural communities. This project will develop an intergenerational program where older women who are skilled in weaving and “tubok” can mentor young women. Sustainability will be achieved through income-generating projects and a cooperative managing production and sales.

By engaging at least 100-150 women annually; conducting trainings, workshops and exhibitions, Sharielle’s project has a clear and powerful vision to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Panay Bukidnon and empower IP women through Traditional Handcrafts.