For years, Tito observed his father, Mr. Hernando Sánchez, serve as a leader in their community. His father was the only bilingual teacher in the entire department and, at 33, became the president of an indigenous organization. Inspired by his father’s example, one day Tito expressed his desire to establish an Association of Craftspeople in Cumaribo. Initially surprised, his father looked at him intently and cautioned him against it, well aware of the challenges that came with such endeavors after years of communal work. However, undeterred, Tito persevered, and many years later, he successfully founded the association, turning his aspirations into reality. Starting with 15 members, they have now grown to 86. Eventually, Mr. Hernando, a respected leader himself, celebrated his son’s achievement, recognizing the passion inherited by Tito.

As a man in his fifties, Tito has consistently aimed to preserve his Sikuani culture from eroding due to the passage of time and the challenges indigenous groups face in maintaining their identities in a hostile world. From an early age, he perceived artisanal trades as more than mere crafts, thanks to the teachings of his grandmother, Simona. Each symbol depicted on a basket reaffirmed their heritage and narratives. His grandmother’s tender voice shared stories passed down through generations, recounting tales of the matamata turtle. According to legend, the slower matamata invested considerable time in adorning the morrocoy turtle’s shell with intricate yellow dots. In return, the quicker morrocoy created a less elaborate design on the matamata’s shell, given that he was faster and busier. But it was, however, beautiful.

These vivid narratives weave through Tito’s personal story and the narratives of his Sikuani community. His people reside across the breathtaking rainforests of Vichada, and through his leadership, his community in Santa Teresita del Tuparro has dedicated itself to their artisanal trades. Gradually, they have attracted their own visitors and have gained appreciation without intermediaries. Tito recalls how marketers exploited them for years, taking advantage of their friendliness and peaceful nature. By demonstrating the labor-intensive process behind their work, from gathering raw materials to crafting each item, Tito helped his people understand the true value of their creations. Witnessing this process made them realize the incredible things their hands could fashion.

Presently, they stand as an empowered community striving for the recognition they rightfully deserve. They comprehend the richness they can offer to the world, eager to share creations that encapsulate the profound essence of life. During their traditional dances, the Sikuani emphasize the significance of respecting the person dancing opposite them. All these skilled artisans eagerly await us in Santa Teresita del Tuparro, eager to unveil their rich universe to the world.