Introducing WALI BOLlVIA

Seven years ago, Jhessica and Jose set out on an exciting journey to create WALI Bolivia, driven by a simple yet powerful goal: to deliver high-quality, beautifully designed products that are crafted right here in Bolivia. After years of working on various projects, the couple decided to start a family and embark on their own entrepreneurial adventure. In 2017, as they welcomed their daughter into the world, WALI Bolivia was born, marking the beginning of something special

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges—especially during the pandemic. But rather than being discouraged, Jhessica and Jose pivoted their focus to social media, using it as a platform to connect with their audience. Thanks to their hard work and creativity, the brand flourished, ultimately leading them to open a store on Calle Sagarnaga, one of the most popular and bustling streets in La Paz.

WALI Bolivia offers a stunning range of products, including wallets, backpack bags, belt bags, crossbody bags, and, by popular demand, purses! What sets WALI apart is their commitment to using traditional Bolivian colors and textures. Their standout material is rustic Aguayo—a sturdier, more durable fabric than the regular aguayo. Plus, they prioritize eco-friendly materials and high-quality craftsmanship, making them a distinctive choice among the many producers on the street.

Aguayo is a vibrant fabric traditionally woven by native women in various Andean regions of South America. This time-honored technique is passed down through generations, with artisans using sheep, llama, or alpaca wool to create the fabric. The bright colors come from natural dyeing methods, resulting in a unique piece every time. At WALI, no two Aguayo products are alike, meaning that each item you purchase is truly one-of-a-kind.

“The pandemic was tough,” Jhessica shares as she gives me a tour of the store, “but we’re still facing many challenges. It’s hard to find reliable people to work with, and right now, we’re a small team of five. Plus, sourcing rustic Aguayo is becoming increasingly difficult as industrial production threatens our traditions and the invaluable craftsmanship behind our products.”

The traditional handmade Aguayo is at risk of disappearing, replaced by industrial versions that lack authenticity, eco-friendliness, and the skilled artistry of rustic Aguayo. WALI Bolivia is committed to preserving this beautiful tradition and supporting the Andean people who are losing their livelihoods to larger industrial companies.

WALI's vision is to become a global reference for high-quality Bolivian products while creating jobs in the various sectors they engage with.

So, let’s give a warm welcome to WALI Bolivia at the Waliki-Shop! You’ll not only find unique, handcrafted items but also be a part of preserving a rich cultural heritage. Happy shopping!