What started as a simple passion for beads in 2011 has grown into a livelihood movement that is transforming the lives of women and their families in Pagadian City. At the heart of this inspiring journey is Jane Ortiz, the founder and creative force behind Obra ni Juana, a social enterprise that produces handmade bead accessories and handbags.
From Hobby to Enterprise
Jane’s journey began when she experimented with making bead jewelry as a personal hobby. “I wanted something one-of-a-kind, something even I couldn’t replicate,” she recalls. Her early creations caught the attention of friends and neighbors, who encouraged her to keep going.
By 2015, her hobby had evolved into a business. Jane opened a showroom at the Cucina Juana Building in Sta. Maria District, Pagadian City, officially turning her craft into a livelihood opportunity.
The turning point came when the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) discovered her work and encouraged her to take her bead designs to the next level. “It was really DTI who pushed me to go out of my comfort zone and create spectacular pieces,” Jane shared.
Building a Community of Women Artisans
Today, Obra ni Juana is more than a business—it is a community. The initiative now supports 15 female artisans, many of them mothers and housewives, who work together to produce unique necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and handbags.
Each piece is handmade and tells a story of creativity, perseverance, and empowerment. Beyond providing income, Obra ni Juana gives its members a sense of purpose and pride.
One artisan proudly shared, “Our talents were enhanced, and we realized that we truly have skills. This has a big impact because we can earn extra income.”
Support from Government and the Community
The success of Obra ni Juana is also a result of strong local support. The city government of Pagadian funded training programs in bag-making, enabling more women to learn new skills and achieve financial independence.
Jane expressed gratitude to both DTI and the city government, saying:
“Your commitment to empower women by providing livelihood programs has made a huge impact in their lives. It has also made way for me to build a community of artisan women who are now helping me in production.”
Reaching Global Markets
Obra ni Juana’s products are now available online, in trade fairs, and in physical shops. Many of its buyers come from overseas, including the United States, Australia, Canada, and Europe. The raw materials, sourced from countries like Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and China, allow for a unique mix of quality and design that appeals to international markets.
Social media also plays a big role in the brand’s success, helping Jane reach customers far beyond Pagadian City. The local government proudly promotes her products and even gives Obra ni Juana bags as gifts to visiting dignitaries and tourists.
Dreaming Bigger
Jane continues to train women in Pagadian, passing on her knowledge and helping more families gain financial stability. Her next goal is to join international trade fairs and eventually hold a solo exhibit to showcase the work of her community.
Despite the challenges of running a growing business, Jane remains passionate about her craft:
“It’s difficult but fulfilling! Do not stop seeking new things. Just keep creating.”
Key Takeaways
- Obra ni Juana began as a hobby and has become a livelihood project for 15 women in Pagadian City.
- Support from DTI and the Pagadian City Government played a crucial role in turning it into a sustainable enterprise.
- Products are sold locally and internationally, bringing recognition to the talent of local artisans.
- Jane Ortiz continues to train more women, with a dream to represent her work in international trade fairs.