In the bustling city of El Alto, Bolivia, where the Aymara and Quechua cultures converge, two women, Roxana Quispe and Emma Poma, have dedicated their lives to fighting poverty and promoting the rights of indigenous people. Their journey from poverty to empowerment is a testament to resilience, community, and inclusive development.
In Aymara, an indigenous Andean language, "Amuyu" conveys the notion of ideas that resemble dreams – ambitions that are pursued. For Roxana and Emma, their Amuyu has carried them from the highlands of Bolivia to the corridors of the World Bank in Washington, D.C., transforming not only their lives but also the future of their communities. This journey began in local workshops and reached its peak at the World Bank event "Addressing the Hidden Dimensions of Poverty in Knowledge and Policies," where they brought the voices of their communities to a global stage.
Roxana and Emma's paths converged through Altogether in Dignity-Fourth World (ATD-Fourth World), an international movement dedicated to eradicating poverty worldwide. Roxana was born in Causaya in La Paz department's indigenous Aymara community. She was introduced to ATD-Fourth World by a friend in 2011, discovering a community focused on reflective learning and engagement.
Emma was born to Aymara parents who migrated from a rural area to Niño Kollo peri-urban zone in La Paz department. She currently resides in El Alto. Emma joined ATD-Fourth World 18 years ago, finding a community that allowed her to discover her talents, strengthen her knowledge, and amplify her voice.
Over the years, Roxana and Emma have become vocal advocates for the rights of the poor. Their stories reflect a larger narrative of indigenous empowerment in Bolivia. With about 40% of its population identifying as indigenous, Bolivia has one of Latin America's highest percentages of indigenous people. Yet this group has historically faced significant barriers to education, employment, and political participation.
The World Bank's work with indigenous communities in Bolivia is guided by a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. Through its projects, it endeavors to support initiatives that respect indigenous cultures while promoting sustainable development and ensuring that indigenous voices are heard in decision-making processes.
As they speak out on these issues, challenges facing their communities become clear. Climate change has hit Bolivian Altiplano hard with unpredictable weather patterns disrupting traditional agricultural practices. Bolivia is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts with projections indicating significant glacier retreat which could affect water availability for millions.
Understanding multidimensional aspects of poverty is essential—going beyond income considerations like access to education or healthcare while preserving cultural heritage reminds us effective development must include those it aims at serving.
Roxana’s work alongside Emma’s continues; their voices now partaking globally on poverty discussions symbolize progress when we amplify long-silenced voices towards an inclusive equitable future for all.