Seeing him bike ten miles through cobblestone hills and rough terrain twice a week, no one would ever guess that Pedro Silva just turned 77 years old. “I like to stay active and ride my bicycle early in the morning,” says Pedro. “The open air makes me feel alive.”
Pedro has been living in San Bartolo, a small colonial town just a few minutes away from the center of Antigua, Guatemala, his whole life. “I love my town,” he says. “We are all hard workers here and take pride in what we do.”
Pedro is a dedicated silversmith. Ever since he first started working with silver over 50 years ago, he has been creating uniquely crafted pieces. Aside from the delicate silver and jade jewelry he designs for NOVICA, Pedro also finds immense joy in giving back to his community by welding special silver crowns to adorn saints for his local church.
While Pedro finds solace in his artistry, he also finds his craft to be more than just work. Says Pedro: “Working with silver and making ornaments has turned into more than a hobby for me —it’s a calling.” Even though he says his silversmith work makes him feel young and alive, Pedro finds life’s true fulfillment in teaching. “I enjoy teaching others the art of silver. Since I’ve built my own workshop, I have taught over 50 people. And I will continue to teach anyone who sets foot in my shop.”
Although he has seen many apprentices pass through his doors, his favorite has always been his grandson. “Teaching my grandson has been the greatest pleasure for me. He is so skilled and I am happy that he will continue my work,” he says, beaming with pride.
Pedro is beyond grateful for what he has been able to accomplish since partnering with NOVICA. He keeps a pair of broken eyeglasses he was finally able to replace after he fulfilled his first order as a reminder of his success. “By the grace of God, I am still able to work — and thanks to NOVICA, I am given the opportunity to help my artisan community in Guatemala, offering opportunities for more and more workers” he says, smiling ear to ear. “This fills my town with happiness, giving us hope for more dignified lives.” As days go by, Pedro’s dedication to his artistry still gives him a fresh lust for life and an enduring spirit to help others. He hopes that he will never have to stop.
Incredibly inspiring story.. Thanks for sharing.