PASSERI & La Paz International Foundation
BECAUSE WE CARE ABOUT YOU AND THE PLANET.
Our Weavers
BECAUSE WE CARE ABOUT YOU AND THE PLANET.
Handweaving indigenous stories into their designs for generations
In Andean culture weaving originated as a means of communication, a way of recording stories and passing them down through families and generations. Pre-Hispanic societies didn't have a system of writing so the expression of the culture in their textiles is incredibly poignant. Countless indigenous Andeans desire to make their living through this culturally significant craft they have spent years perfecting and which has been passed down from generation to generation. This lifestyle is in perilous jeopardy, however, as the fast fashion movement has trained consumers to desire things produced quickly by laborers who are paid less than livable wages.
As our weavers desire you to be moved by their work, your purchase in turn supports them in living their best lives. We all thank you!
Looms
Tools of the trade
Color
Breathing life into the story
Most of Passeri textiles are crafted on a loom much like the one pictured here. These machines are called "pedal looms" because of the use of the pedal, also called a "treadle,"
that moves.
Some Passeri textiles are also created on back-strap looms, as these are often portable, and one of our weavers even weaves while on public transportation! She shared that she loves the ability to weave while taking long bus rides to a market.
Men and women alike weave. In ancient Incan culture, all people who weaved were seen as respected artisans. See our gallery on the left for some video shorts of a few of
our weavers.
Most of Passeri textiles are crafted on a loom much like the one pictured here. These machines are called "pedal looms" because of the use of the pedal, also called a "treadle," that moves.
Some Passeri textiles are also created on back-strap looms, as these are often portable, and one of our weavers even weaves while on public transportation! She shared that she loves the ability to weave while taking long bus rides to a market.
Men and women alike weave. In ancient Incan culture, all people who weaved were seen as respected artisans. See our gallery on the left for some video shorts of a few of our weavers.
Seventy-five percent of PASSERI’s profits directly support the La Paz International Foundation, founded in 2002 and earning its 501(c)(3) status in 2013. PASSERI was launched in 2022 as the social enterprise arm of La Paz International Foundation, creating a bridge between artisan craftsmanship and global consumers. The Foundation empowers artisans around the globe, fostering connections to self, others, and the planet, while cultivating a sense of belonging and offering opportunities for upward mobility. We currently rely on and seek external grant funding to help us execute our projects as the slow fashion industry of artisanal products does not yet support the profit margins necessary to fund our projects.
At its core, the Foundation is educational and experiential-focused, striving to expand people’s capacity to be beauty, live compassionately, love everyone, create peace, and act with kindness. In addition to its artisan-centered programs, La Paz hosts group travel opportunities for those seeking transformative experiences. These journeys are more than just trips—they are infused with cultural connection and adventure, designed to be non-exploitative and led by indigenous people, ensuring authenticity and respect.
PASSERI is more than a luxury fashion brand—it is a social enterprise driven by purpose. Through slow fashion and mission-centered initiatives, we connect people with artisanal luxury products that celebrate the rich cultural stories and traditions of our artisans. PASSERI’s wearable art is a tangible representation of this mission, bridging the gap between cultural heritage and the global marketplace. By shining a light on the stories behind every piece, we aim to uplift individuals who might otherwise remain unseen, creating opportunities for artisans to thrive and share their unique artistry with the world.
Together with the La Paz International Foundation, we have formally and informally undertaken transformative projects globally. These include the Women’s Pottery Project in Tanzania, the Thai Stove Project, and the Reforestation Spoon Initiative. In Guatemala, we supported the creation of a Women’s Center, providing marginalized women with a safe space to learn, connect, and grow. Today, this center has evolved into a thriving social enterprise—a bakery that sustains the community. Other initiatives include the Rabbit Project in Guatemala, which fostered sustainable food production and income, and our ongoing support of indigenous cobblers and weavers in Peru, ensuring their crafts are preserved for future generations.
PASSERI has trademarked the phrases “BE BEAUTY,” "STEP INTO YOUR POWER," and “COME WALK WITH US” to reflect our shared vision: a world where individuals are empowered to design and live the lives of their dreams, contributing to global connectivity and human development. Together, we demonstrate that luxury can have a mission, fashion can foster connection, and every story has the power to transform lives.
