Buenas tardes!
I am Meredith, the newest volunteer addition to the Threads of Peru family. I will be volunteering for the month of March, and thrilled about the opportunity!
I will be working with Threads of Peru to better understand its customers and their feedback, as well as strategizing on how to draw more people to Threads of Peru to benefit its cause, while also gaining access to luxury-quality items.
A photogenic alpaca on the way to Sacsayhuaman!
I was drawn to Threads of Peru because of its dedication to alleviating poverty and preserving cultural traditions by way of social enterprise. Having worked for numerous start-ups and small companies, I am extremely enthusiastic about entrepreneurship and its ability to solve some of the world’s toughest problems – just what Threads of Peru is doing.
My hometown is Glen Cove, New York, a stone’s throw from New York City. In May of 2013 I attained a BA in Economics from Siena College in Albany, New York.
Though I have studied at the London School of Economics and traveled throughout Europe, as well as made a trip to South Africa in December, this is my first time in South America. For someone who has never been to the continent, I think that Cusco has thus far been an excellent introduction to South America.
Sunday was the last day of Carnival in Cusco, meaning mischievous children were out in full force with their water balloons and spray foam!
The Andes loom over Cusco at all times. Music emanates from homes and restaurants. Art-like stone streets and centuries-old architecture are reminders of the city’s ancient past. Quechua women in traditional, vibrant attire selling artisan goods in the San Pedro market are evidence of the city’s rich cultural present. Remaining timeless about Cusco, though, is the affability of its inhabitants.
I have received a warm welcome to Cusco thus far and anticipate an exhilarating and eye-opening experience at Threads of Peru in the weeks to come.