ABOUT BAYANIHAN

ANTHILL (Alternative Nest and Trading /Training Hub for Indigenous or Ingenious Little Livelihood seekers) is a social and cultural enterprise in Cebu, Philippines with a strong mission to preserve our craft traditions and provide sustainable livelihood to Filipino artisans. It is integral in our core of our values to seek innovative and inclusive solutions on how we can build entrepreneurial capacity and ensure that our artisans do not get left behind.  

Bayanihan was born out of the presence of a growing global community showing up for us in the toughest times throughout the pandemic. We aim to activate this contagious spirit of bayanihan once again to connect our artisans directly to the market, expand their reach to a global market and support their desire to weave tradition and technology by learning digital skills in storytelling and marketing. The value and the spirit of Bayanihan is the common thread that lives among us in a way that honours this connection. It gives us the opportunity to grow a community and be of service to each other in a way that fosters resilience and lasting change.

In partnership with The Spark Project, an initial funding from the Australian Alumni Grant Scheme, and our Design Collaborators, we provide a platform for our entrepreneurial artisans to weave new dreams with you!

COMMUNITY STORY AND GOAL

Nestled in the heart of Basilan, amidst the lush landscapes and the rhythmic hum of back-strap looms, lies a community whose story is as intricate as the patterns they weave. For generations, the Yakan women artisans have breathed life into their craft, weaving not just fabrics but the very essence of their culture and heritage.

In a region marred by conflict and adversity, weaving isn't merely a livelihood; it's a lifeline. Yet, these artisans have grappled with challenges, from the unpredictability of weather to the exploitation by middlemen. But amidst these hardships, their spirit remains unyielding, their hands never ceasing to create beauty from thread.

In 2022, a ray of hope shined through the clouds as the community unveiled their own weaving center, a beacon of light amid the shadows of its past. With the support of the Angat Buhay Foundation, they now have a sanctuary where their craft can flourish, rain or shine. But their journey doesn't end here.

With your support, Ate Laila and her fellow artisans aim to enhance their weaving center, creating a space where their vibrant creations can be showcased with pride. From purchasing additional display racks for storage to providing more tables and chairs for their office, every contribution brings them one step closer to their dream of sustainable livelihoods and a thriving cultural enterprise.

Tier 1: Likha Bag Charms - Php 650

Tier 2: Mayumi Reversible Obi Belt - Php 1500

Tier 3: Makisig Reversible Bucket Hat - Php 1700

Tier 4: Istilo Yakan Shorts - Php 1800

Tier 5: Sining Yakan Tote - Php 3000

Tier 6: Disenyo Yakan Polo - Php 4500

Tier 7: Studio Sug Coordinates - Php 6000

At Php 20,000, the community can further enhance its workspace by acquiring essential office furniture such as tables and chairs. These additions will provide our artisans with comfortable and functional workstations, allowing them to focus on their creative endeavors with ease.

At Php 30,000, the community can set up a display center to showcase their beautiful handwoven fabrics but also serve as a welcoming space for visitors to explore and appreciate their work.

At Php 50,000, the community will be able to secure additional materials that are vital to their craft, including thread, monaco balls, and pamo.

At Php 100,000, the community will have enough funds to purchase furniture and fixtures to improve their weaving center, and also materials that they can use for their weaving.

Unlike other crowdfunding initiatives, the funds received from the campaign will directly benefit the Bayani Artisans. The money gained either through reward pledges or donations will be utilized for the purchase of supplies necessary to put in the work required to fulfill the production of the rewards or contribute to fulfilling their aspirations.

Keeping the BAYANIHAN spirit alive and spreading it to more communities will support the Bayani Artisans to reach their target goal however, if the target goal is not met, the artisan still receives the funds due to them from the campaign. 

Thank you for your pledge to #BeABayani!