Hello all!
My name is Sarah So. I have recently joined the Threads of Peru team as the Volunteer Coordinator and Project Assistant. I will be working alongside Dana to assist with ongoing Threads of Peru projects as well as manage our growing volunteer program in 2014!
This year marks my fifth visit to Cusco, Peru. I am very familiar with the city of Cusco as I have worked here in the past as volunteer coordinator for another organization but am particularly enthusiastic in joining Threads of Peru.
My hometown is Portland, Oregon and I have lived in Seattle for the past seven years. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from the University of Washington, where I studied Latin American art, culture and language. After volunteering for the first time in Cusco, Peru, I was inspired to learn more about Peruvian culture and realized my interest in working in the social field.
Threads of Peru caught my attention from the start with their mission and model to alleviate poverty through the use of traditional weaving, empowering indigenous artisans as well as educating the public about this ancient art and tradition. I highly value the importance of sustainable development, a commitment demonstrated by TOP through providing economic and capacitation opportunities for Andean weavers and access to resources with which to compete in an international market.
As Volunteer Coordinator and Project Assistant, my work with TOP will primarily be assisting volunteers from their pre-arrival to Cusco until departure. I'm very much looking forward to meeting all those who will be joining our team here or remotely to support the continued success of Threads of Peru!