COLOMBIA |
Ahmsa creates and strengthens businesses comprised of marginalized populations, including displaced persons and refugees, former child soldiers, single mothers, and others living amidst poverty and violence.
Here are some examples of community enterprises that ahmsa supports:
MEGANET COMMUNITY INTERNET CAFE
Location:
Los Altos de Cazucá, Bogotá/Soacha, Colombia
Enterprise Summary:
Community Internet Cafes are a unique new initiative designed by ahmsa and at-risk youth in one of the most violent and poverty-stricken neighborhoods in Latin America. They meet two major needs in the community. On one hand, they provide a source of employment and self-esteem for at-risk youth who have no other economic opportunities. On the other hand, they bring technology and education to marginalized communities, directly boosting employment and income levels in the area. The youth in Cazucá, Colombia have chosen the name MegRed (Meganet in English) for their Community Internet Café.
For more information on ahmsa’s community internet cafes, please click here.
TEXTILES COOPERATIVE
Location:
Los Altos de Cazucá (Comuna 4) y Los Altos de Florida (Comuna 6), Bogotá/Soacha, Colombia
Enterprise Summary: This textiles cooperative is made up of 28 people from marginalized groups, including disabled persons, single mothers, displaced persons and at-risk youth. The cooperative has already received 364 hours of capacity building and skills training and $13,889 USD in machinery and materials under ahmsa’s seed capital program. Currently, ahmsa is working with the cooperative to improve its products and establish a network of clients.
RECYCLING COOPERATIVE
Location:
Los Altos de Cazucá (Comuna 4), Bogotá/Soacha, Colombia
Enterprise Summary: This recycling cooperative provides economic opportunities for at-risk youth in an environmentally responsible way. The youth recycle materials from the streets and convert them into lamps, notebooks and expo stands. With the help of ahmsa, this cooperative is currently expanding its activities and continuing to design innovative products.