Cynthia Nicolás Katari: When one woman finds support, she can transform the lives of others
For years, Cynthia Nicolás Katari endured physical, psychological, and economic violence without realizing that her rights were being violated. It was through training sessions delivered under the Building More Just Municipalities project that she first learned about Law No. 348, the Comprehensive Law to Guarantee Women a Life Free from Violence. Through these sessions, she came to recognize the different forms of violence and understand that it was possible to leave an abusive situation behind. That knowledge led her to make a life-changing decision: to report the violence and begin her own journey of recovery.
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The path was not easy and required specialized support. But it also inspired her to help other women. Today, Cynthia is a community promoter in the municipality of Caracollo, in Bolivia’s Oruro department, where she is part of a network of women providing information, a listening ear and support to women experiencing violence. Drawing on her own experience, she raises awareness about women’s rights, guides survivors through available support services and encourages other women to seek help.
“Learning about my rights changed my life. Today, I support other women so they know they are not alone and that there is always a way out of violence.”
Her story is also the story of a growing network across Bolivia. Through the Building More Just Municipalities project, funded by the European Union, 57 community guidance points have been established across 51 municipalities. These spaces are run by community promoters who, like Cynthia, have transformed their own experiences of violence into a source of strength to support other women.
Many have become trusted figures in their communities, demonstrating a level of commitment that goes beyond their formal responsibilities. When essential support services are unavailable, particularly during weekends or public holidays, some even open their own homes to provide women facing violence with a safe place, guidance and emotional support.
In addition to helping women access specialized services, including the Municipal Comprehensive Legal Services (SLIM) and the Special Force to Combat Violence (FELCV), these community promoters lead awareness-raising and prevention activities that help foster communities built on equality and respect.