In Colombia’s Catatumbo region, a small sewing workshop established as a result of the 2016 peace agreement offers former combatants a chance to reintegrate into society and heal from the wounds of conflict. The initiative enables women to learn a trade and regain self-confidence by supporting each other.
Founded by Ms. Avella, ‘Stitches for Peace’ initially produced sweatshirts, t-shirts, and uniforms. In 2021, it unexpectedly ventured into the high fashion world. An initiative by the United Nations Verification Mission led to a meeting with economist and second-hand boutique owner Lina Garcés, who helped pivot the project’s direction.
Despite initial hesitation, Garcés was struck by the women’s incredible talent when she visited the workshop in Catatumbo’s challenging conditions. The women, who had honed their sewing skills repairing uniforms and boots during the conflict, were now using these abilities to weave a new narrative for peace.
Ixora Brand and Reconciliation
After fifteen days of intensive work, skirt designs inspired by the Ixora flower—which blooms year-round in Catatumbo and symbolizes resilience and determination—emerged. This led to the birth of the brand ‘Ixora, inclusive and autonomous.’ In late 2021, they unveiled their first collection at a fashion show in Cúcuta’s Julio Pérez library, where victims of conflict and signatories of the peace agreement shared the runway.
Later, while sharing their story at the Cúcuta Book Fair, Ms. Garcés publicly disclosed her family’s trauma for the first time. She stated, “For me, today they are sensitive women who want to move forward. I had forgiveness on my side; now I want to support them and let more people know their work so we can live in peace.” Ixora skirts were made available at Garcés’s store and quickly attracted the interest of other designers. The brand has since been featured in fashion shows in Tibú, Ocaña, and Bogotá, and participated as a special guest at Colombiamoda, the country’s most important textile fair, in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Resurgence of Violence
However, this narrative of reconciliation, entrepreneurship, and peace was severely impacted in January of last year by a resurgence of violence in the region. Mass displacements, the killings of social leaders and ex-combatants occurred, forcing thousands of families to abandon their homes. The sewing workshop had to close due to fear, and the women’s priority became protecting their lives.
Paradoxically, amidst this crisis, news they had been awaiting for months arrived: Ixora was officially registered as a brand in Colombia. However, there was no celebration, as it was “not the time” and there was “too much uncertainty.” The project is currently on an indefinite hiatus. The women are awaiting guarantees to relocate to a safer area.
Hope for the Future
The Ixora story is far from over. The brand has secured a project with the Agency for Reincorporation and Normalization (ARN) to support women in their self-care and psychological support processes. In this new phase, Ixora aims not only to generate income but also to provide a space for well-being for those who have experienced the effects of conflict.
Ms. Avella emphasizes that the project signifies more than just an economic endeavor; it is about keeping their association alive and demonstrating that they can build something different. As the women await the moment to restart their sewing machines, they hold onto the hope that Ixora, like the flower it is named after, will bloom again even in the most challenging conditions.
