Fabiola Fajardo, a local woman passionate about carpentry.
For 38 years, Fabiola Fajardo has dedicated her life to carpentry, a trade that she inherited from her father and that has been her passion from an early age. On this Labor Day, we will know her testimony.
the beginning
At 57 years old, Fabiola has faced numerous challenges in a field traditionally dominated by men, but, despite the barriers and prejudices, her determination and love for her craft have been stronger than any discouraging comments.
In dialogue with Diario Crónica, the master carpenter explains that she has not had any major difficulties in terms of handling the machines, since her long experience in the field has allowed her to easily adapt to the evolution of the tools. However, she highlights the importance of constant practice to perfect her skills and master the techniques necessary in using modern devices.
As for anecdotes, Fabiola shares her beginnings as an independent worker and clearly remembers the day when, at the age of 17, she approached the Catholic University of Quito in search of job opportunities. At that time, while she was working on making furniture for the architecture school, she was met with skepticism. Despite laughter and doubts about her abilities, the dean of the faculty gave her the opportunity to prove her worth. With determination and skill, Fabiola surprised everyone with an excellent performance, which resulted in her being hired that same day.
Trajectory
Fabiola proudly recounts her beginnings as a master carpenter in the field of restoration, work that led her to participate in significant projects, such as the restoration of the Santo Domingo crafts in Quito, the Municipality of Tabacundo and Casa Montalvo in Ambato, as well as in the Cathedral of Loja. Additionally, she was a pioneer in the work carried out at the Museo de las Conceptas and the Museo de El Valle. In Quito, her skill was evident in the restoration of various historical buildings such as Casa la Manzana, Casa del Ciego and Casa del Toro, as well as her contribution to the restoration of the Bolívar Theater after a fire. Fajardo expresses that her legacy endures in the different places where she has worked, where her meticulousness and skill have kept her work impeccable over the years.
With 23 years of experience in the local council, Fabiola has left an indelible mark on the parishes and was one of the pioneers in the carpentry project for the Municipality. From her first days at the entity, she contributed to the restoration of facades in houses in El Cisne and Malacatos. Furthermore, she says that at the beginning she was part of the Headquarters of the Historic Center, but the changes in administrations brought with them different approaches, so now she focuses more on certain work.
On a personal level, he continues his work in the workshop he inherited from his father, working alongside his five brothers. In that space, they are dedicated to creating doors, windows, desks and other wooden objects.
On this May 1st, Fabiola feels proud to have a job that allows her to support her family and urges others to pursue their dreams and learn crafts. She firmly believes that, although not practiced as a profession, these trades can enrich the home and daily life in many ways. (YO)
