Who we are: 

The Q'ente Textile Revitalization Society is an incorporated British Columbia not-for-profit society, which informally began in 2006. We work directly with weavers in the Andean region of Peru by providing an outlet to sell textiles in North America. The aim of this project is to establish sustainability in the Sacred Valley region through the textile tradition, which is an integral part of the Quechua culture, history, and economy.

Origin of our Name:

"Q'ente" is the Quechua word for "hummingbird," and is named for the powerful Andean symbol that represents regeneration and rebirth to new life. The hummingbird symbolizes hope and is the connection between our world and the upper world. Machu Picchu, when viewed from the air, is in the shape of a hummingbird, as well as is one of the most famous Nazca Lines. With over 320 species in the world, the hummingbird is one of the only creatures whose native habitat extends all the way from Canada to Peru.

Our goal is to, in theory, be a hummingbird - the connection between Canada and Peru, bringing hope and revitalization to communities.

Our Goals:

• To help revitalize the Quechua textile tradition for its artistic, cultural, and historical value

• To renew respect and pride for the Quechua culture, language, and lifestyle

• To act as a networking platform for textile and cultural revitalization projects in the Peruvian Andes

• To encourage the transmission of traditional knowledge and reconnection of generations in Quechua communities

• To aid in the stabilization of the economy in participating communities, and bridge the gap in the commodity chain between producer and consumer

• To foster international awareness of and compassion for third-world issues, international solidarity, and the value of indigenous traditions