Happy Women’s Day!

MACCS began as a group of ten women united by a vision—to promote local handicrafts, revive our rich heritage, conserve the ecosystems that sustain our crafts, and impart knowledge to future generations. At the time, we believed our impact would be small and simple. But thirteen years later, our journey has taken us far beyond what we ever imagined.

Today, while staying true to our core values, our work extends across multiple sectors. From waste management to environmental conservation to heritage revival, we are not only empowering women at the household level but also driving meaningful change through technical expertise, policy contributions, and key interventions. Our team and members are at the forefront— leading projects, shaping policies, and setting new standards.

The work that we do is a testament to women's leadership in every aspect. Through our grant-funded projects, we have created opportunities for women who might otherwise be confined to traditional 9-to-5 jobs while managing responsibilities at home. Our flexible work model ensures that women—whether they are caregivers, managing families, or handling other commitments—can still apply their technical expertise and contribute meaningfully. Today, 80% of our key positions are held by women, and over 60% of our time-based work is carried out by women. This journey has shown us that when women are given the opportunity, they don’t just participate—they lead, innovate, and drive transformation.

Through these efforts, we have met incredible women at all levels—from community engagement to advocacy, and even within local councils, where women are leading from the front. Their resilience, dedication, and vision continue to inspire us, proving that true progress is only possible when women are given the space to thrive.

Running this cooperative, we have seen firsthand the power of women’s leadership. We bring diverse perspectives, a collaborative spirit, and an unwavering commitment to building stronger, more sustainable communities. We bridge gaps, foster innovation, and create lasting impact.

We are deeply grateful to the donors who believed in us—who recognized the potential of women-led initiatives and dared to challenge the status quo. Your trust has empowered us to rewrite the narrative—proving that women are not just part of the solution; we are the solution.

We also take a moment to appreciate the men who have supported us, worked alongside us, and helped break down barriers. We recognize that not everyone shares this perspective—but that has never stopped us. We continue to push forward, proving that inclusivity and empowerment make us all stronger.

This Women’s Day, we celebrate the fearless women who dare to dream, challenge the norm, and shape a better future. We honor the power of women uplifting one another, leading the way, and transforming communities.

Here’s to a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive, to lead, and to leave her mark!