In the heart of Medellín, nestled in the traditional Niquitao neighborhood, Casa Embera has emerged as a multicultural haven for the Embera indigenous community. Displaced from their ancestral territories in Chocó due to violence, the Embera have found solace and empowerment in this unique project.
Founded in 2019 by a compassionate couple, Elizabeth Burkhalter and her husband, Casa Embera began as a response to the Embera’s challenging living conditions and limited Spanish proficiency. The project’s initial focus was to provide fair employment opportunities through the creation and sale of intricate beadwork, a craft deeply rooted in Embera culture. This initiative, known as “Embera Bead Project,” quickly gained international recognition and success.
During the pandemic, the founders witnessed the escalating needs of the Embera community and expanded their efforts to include food distribution. Recognizing the necessity for a dedicated space, Casa Embera was officially inaugurated in 2022, thanks to a collaborative effort with the Medellín Mayor’s Office, Reincorporied NFP, and Sueños y Huellas del Mañana.
Today, Casa Embera serves as a safe and nurturing environment where the Embera can preserve their cultural identity, pass down ancestral knowledge to their children, and adapt to urban life. The center offers a range of services, including educational support for children, artisanal workshops, healthcare, and nutritional assistance.
The project’s economic model ensures fair compensation for the artisans, with 50% of the profits going directly to them and the remaining 50% used to sustain the center’s operations. Casa Embera also provides workshops on financial literacy, resume writing, and job skills, empowering the Embera to integrate into the city’s workforce and achieve self-sufficiency.
Beyond economic empowerment, Casa Embera prioritizes cultural preservation and language acquisition. Educational programs for all ages foster cross-cultural understanding and have even led the founders to learn the Embera language.
While the ultimate goal is for the Embera to return to their ancestral lands, the founders acknowledge the ongoing displacement and the need to expand the project to support those who arrive in Medellín. Through global outreach, donations, and events like the “Fiesta en una Caja,” Casa Embera seeks to ensure the sustainability of its programs and reach a wider audience.