In today's Friday Foto, Cofán women taking a Spanish course in Quito visit the Presidential Palace, among other historical sites, and pose with the presidential guards.

One skill we have determined to be crucial for inclusion in conservation work and advocacy, not to mention communication with government entities and national institutions is the ability to speak Spanish. Beginning in 2007, our Spanish classes for women have involved study and taking classes in Quito, including excursions into the city so the women have the chance to use the language. These classes contribute to an increase in self-esteem and empowerment, and have resulted in the improved capacity and greatly increased participation by the women in Cofán politics and overall conservation management.