Women We Love

I am reflecting upon my own experiences this Women’s History Month, noticing a common thread. The women that I admire, honor, and respect the most all embody this type of compassionate energy. Chana was one of the few people who shared my ethnicity, understood my dreams, and made a point to consistently engage with me on the campus–no matter how busy she was with her studies. I think about how it has pushed me to lead and be in service of others and, with so many threats against women’s rights currently across the world, how important it is to show gratitude and support for every accomplishment and create sacred spaces along the way.

For Latinx heritage month our team has shared their fav female Latinx artists. We recommend you to go deep with these women.

"Where do I start? I love her curiosity to learn and understand the world through travel; her passion for life and art; how she has bravely pursued and grown her career as an artist; her kindness, generosity and support to others; the love and caring she has for her and her family and friends; her intelligence; her perseverance through difficult times; and, I love and appreciate the many things I have learned from her and about her, from the day she was born. She is truly a blessing in my life." - Diane Burt

As part of our month-of-matriarchy, we invited two sets of our favorite mom-and-daughter pairs into the studio for a photo series and interview. We're sharing the images and more on Instagram all month long but meanwhile, here's a slightly deeper dive into who these phenomenal women are. 

 

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month; it also brings one of our favorite celebrations, Mother’s Day. As you know, we’re allllll about the mamas. The mama earth, the earth mama, and all the women—whether they’re childbearers or not—who nurture, heal, and help us grow.

Kennedy Leavens fell in love with Peru when she was a 17 year old Seattle high school student.  The landscapes, the culture, and of course the food enchanted her, and when she returned five years later, in search of adventure, she ended up staying for four years and founding one of CURA’s most beloved brands - Awamaki. 

"Our shows are created with intention from top to bottom.  Our aesthetic is the fusion of technical dancing, singing and editorial costume design wrapped into a provocative live performance. We test viewer perception by evoking all human senses and emotions. Each show is vastly different in theme, but holds a place for a loose narrative."

"Our purpose at Two Cranes is to do what we can within our power to help heal the earth and those in it with the gifts and privileges we’ve been afforded. We are passionate about partnering with other women who are running in their own lanes and are always looking to encourage and uplift others. It is evident you do as well. Our quality in terms of product and brand aesthetic are vital, however, the impact beyond the bottle is where the magic lies."      

"I decided to pursue a master’s degree in International Development at Harvard – it was more like an economics degree – so I could pursue a career in conservation and development finance. I have spent the last 12 years of my professional life advocating for tropical forest conservation, sustainable/regenerative agriculture, and market-based solutions to poverty and environmental degradation.  It’s a huge passion."