Empowering Women for a Sustainable Future: Paula Giraldo and FURAS’s Mission

“You don’t have to be a millionaire to give; you can donate knowledge, time, and effort.”

In a world where social and economic challenges seem to be constantly increasing, stories of resilience and impact stand out as sources of inspiration. Today, we’re speaking with Paula, founder of FURAS, a social enterprise that has been supporting women in marginalised situations in Colombia since 2015. Through training programmes, learning networks, and sustainable employment opportunities, FURAS helps these women find the power within themselves and find the paths to build better lives for themselves and their families.

The Beginning of FURAS: From Personal Crisis to Social Mission

The idea for FURAS emerged during an unexpected moment in Paula’s life. Facing health issues that forced her to pause, Paula used the time to reflect and write. “I started thinking about how I could give back what I had received, especially to women who might not be as fortunate,” Paula shares. With support from friends and colleagues, she began to shape FURAS, an organisation focused on providing low-income women with essential skills and tools to pursue entrepreneurship.

Since its founding, FURAS has expanded its reach across Colombian cities such as Soacha, Bogotá, and Cartagena, with a network of volunteers and mentors. In each community, FURAS not only supports business creation but also builds a strong community based on circular economy principles and collective empowerment.

Challenges and Achievements: Empowering Women in Vulnerable Situations

FURAS has faced numerous challenges, from bureaucracy to the lack of official recognition for social enterprises in Colombia. “In Colombia, social enterprises are often stuck in a middle ground where they’re neither recognised as businesses nor individuals,” Paula explains, noting that even simple tasks, like opening a bank account, become major hurdles.

Another pressing challenge is unfair competition, which can undermine the years of research and development that go into creating culturally meaningful products. Paula highlights, “Many of our products are deeply rooted in cultural traditions passed down through generations. Unfortunately, these are sometimes copied without regard for their cultural significance or the craftsmanship behind them.” Such practices not only dilute the unique value of artisanal and ancestral techniques but also threaten the livelihoods of those who rely on them.

Despite these obstacles, the impact FURAS has had on the lives of the women it supports is unmistakable. “We go directly to the communities, knocking on doors, introducing ourselves, and breaking down barriers of distrust,” says Paula. Unlike many organisations that take a more hands-off approach, FURAS stays connected with the women it supports, guiding them every step of the way as they pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

A Network of Support and Solidarity

One of the unique aspects of FURAS is its emphasis on building support networks. According to a study published by Bavaria Foundation, Rosario University, and the Sura Group, 67% of female-led businesses in Colombia fail due to a lack of networks and mentorship. To counter this, FURAS not only offers high-quality education and training but also treats each woman with dignity and respect. “We don’t just call them by their names; we address them with respect because they deserve it,” Paula says.

Innovation for a Sustainable Future

FURAS has set its sights on meeting 10 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, including Quality Education, Gender Equality, and Partnerships for the Goals. One of FURAS' most innovative projects is producing eco-friendly sanitary products. In Cartagena, where plastic pollution is a significant issue, this project not only supports the environment but also provides women with a sustainable way to earn a living by making these products at home.

Additionally, FURAS is leading digital and financial inclusion projects, providing computers and internet access in vulnerable communities so women can work on their businesses and access educational resources without having to leave their neighbourhoods. “We want these women to gain autonomy and feel valued,” says Paula.

The Importance of Volunteering and External Support

For FURAS, volunteering is a cornerstone of its mission. Paula emphasises that anyone can contribute, regardless of experience. “You don’t have to be a millionaire to give; you can donate knowledge, time, and effort,” she says. Platforms like We Make Change have enabled FURAS to access skilled and committed volunteers who offer expertise in marketing, finance, and business development.

One notable example of this support is the Change Day, organised in partnership with Coca-Cola, where marketing experts provided FURAS with guidance on how to promote its projects effectively. This collaboration has been instrumental in helping the organisation expand its reach and impact.

Vision for the Future

With an eye toward 2030, FURAS continues to grow. The organisation plans to expand its scholarship programmes, continue training women in entrepreneurship and wellness, and advance its digital inclusion and sustainability projects. “Our goal is for every woman we support to have the opportunity to transform her life and her community,” Paula concludes.

FURAS is a powerful example of how social enterprise can transform lives and communities. If you would like to support or learn more about their work, you can follow FURAS on social media as “FURAS Emprendimientos Femeninos” or reach out through their website.

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This is part of our ChangeLeaders interview series with impact leaders sharing their journeys, learnings, and lessons. If you are a ChangeLeader we should interview, please email us at info@wemakechange.org.

Interview & Article: Laura De Alba