These breakthroughs were not just milestones. Indeed, they were proof that when vision meets action, transformation follows..
By 2018, the seed of hope planted years earlier had begun to bloom. U4C was no longer just a vision—it was a movement. The early pilot projects had proven that change was possible. Now, it was time to scale that change and shape a mission that could cross borders and transform lives.
Empowering Women in Bolivia
In the heart of Quime, Bolivia, the CECAP “Bob Reid” Training Center became a beacon of empowerment. More than 400 women graduated, equipped with technical skills, entrepreneurial training, and the confidence to launch 10+ microenterprises. These women—once confined by social norms and economic vulnerability—were now artisans, leaders, and business owners. Consequently, their products, crafted with care and purpose, began to reach new markets through the newly launched U4C Fair Trade Store.
In addition, “We didn’t just teach skills—we unlocked potential.”
Supporting Women Living with HIV in Kenya
Meanwhile, across the globe in Kisumu, Kenya, U4C partnered with Rotary Peace Fellow Elizabeth Ngere and Women Arise for Positive Change (WAPC). Here, 60+ women living with HIV received hands-on training in income-generating activities. Many were single mothers, navigating extreme poverty and stigma. Through this pilot project, they found not only economic opportunity but renewed dignity and hope.
“I’ve realized that HIVdoes not define me..” Susan – WAPC Program Kisumu, Kenya
Leadership Development in the United States
Back in the United States, U4C was sowing seeds of leadership. With support from the Rotary Club of Humble, more than 10 Social Impact Leaders were trained to design, implement, and evaluate sustainable peace projects. These changemakers carried the spirit of U4C into their own communities, thereby multiplying the impact far beyond borders.
Moreover, “Leadership is not about titles—it’s about transformation.”
Expanding the Artisan Network Globally
The momentum continued. In 2019, U4C expanded its artisan network to Nepal, Colombia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Bolivia, creating global markets for women’s handmade goods. For instance, in Pokhara, Nepal, a powerful collaboration was born. Ximena Murillo, U4C’s CEO, joined forces with Rotary Peace Fellows Kum Gurung and Joanne Elvy, and Ramkali Khadka, Executive Director of the Women’s Skills Development Organization (WSDO). Together, they opened pathways for Nepali women to commercialize their products in the U.S.—products certified by the World Fair Trade Organization, ensuring ethical trade and sustainable livelihoods.
Clean Water Initiatives in Bolivia
And in Bolivia, the need for clean water was met with action. Through Water4All with QBL, in partnership with Quaker Bolivia Link (QBL), U4C launched a transformative project in two villages of Pacajes: Palcoma Baja and Colque Alta. The goal was clear:
- Improve access to clean and safe water for 86 families
- Reduce water-borne diseases and promote good health
- Free up time spent fetching water, especially for women and children
Train all beneficiaries—men, women, and children—in water system maintenance and sanitation practices
As a result, the impact was profound. In Colque Alta, 34 families gained access to water (only 4 had faucets but lacked connection). In Palcoma Baja, 52 families were reached (just 2 had faucets without connection). Additionally, education was key: 130 residents participated in sanitation training, which was progressively delivered and completed during the final visit of U.S. Rotarians.
Furthermore, “Every drop of clean water is a step toward justice.”
Looking Forward: Scaling Impact Worldwide
These years marked a turning point. U4C had moved from pilot projects to scalable programs, from local impact to global reach. 35+ volunteers and Rotarians joined service trips to Bolivia, bridging cultures and building solidarity. In fact, the mission was no longer just imagined—it was embodied in every woman trained, every artisan supported, every leader empowered, and every family whose faucet finally flowed with clean water.
Ultimately, the breakthroughs of 2018–2019 were not just milestones. They were proof that when vision meets action, transformation follows.
Magdalena Zurita
Programs & Innovation Lead, U4C
