Colorful Handcrafted Ceramic Gecko Figurine from El Salvador, "Gecko Fiesta"

When Marisol became a single mother, she found herself overwhelmed with bills and not enough income to support herself and her daughter. At one point she became close to losing her car and her house, leaving her and her daughter homeless. Marisol managed to work extremely hard to overcome this challenge for her little girl. Her determination and love for her daughter got her through the tough times and now she proudly provides for both of them.

Marisol deserves to take genuine pride in how far she has come. "As a single mother, I struggled to pay my bills. At one point, my young daughter and I were on the verge of homelessness. Today, I can pay for her education and give something back to our community," she says. Marisol currently employs local people, many of whom might find it difficult to find jobs elsewhere.

Marisol gives jobs to local people in her workshop to keep up with the demand for her designs. She also is a huge community supporter and gives back in so many ways. She purposely hires either young people or older people because many companies won't hire them because of their age. Marisol also supports other workshops to sell, and gives them tips and new design ideas.

Marisol received a prize from the Ministry of Culture as the Best Woman Entrepreneur in El Salvador. She also won a contest called "El Salvador Productivo," which connects talented artisans to new customers.

This artist is currently supporting and providing for the education of their children, grandchildren, or children in their community, whether it be at the primary, secondary, or university level.

One of Marisol's workers has a hand disability. Although it is challenging for him to work, he is persistent and his effort has led him to be the leader of leather-working in the workshop.

This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive.

Every purchase from this artist has a profound impact on their livelihood and income.

Marisol pays for her daughter's studies and supports her continuing education.

This artist is an elder master and continues to actively practice their craft.

This artist's work has been featured or recognized in media outlets.