First 'pollera' councilor from La Paz in Santa Cruz highlights city's unity

Reina Condarco, a native of La Paz and the first woman to wear traditional pollera attire elected as a councilor in Santa Cruz, embodies the evolving, inclusive spirit of the Bolivian city. Her historic election reflects Santa Cruz's openness to diverse representation and its status as a land of opportunity.

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Here, in Santa Cruz, I have lived and continue to live with people from different departments. Santa Cruz is very hospitable and receives many people from the interior who come to work.

Condarco, who moved to Santa Cruz after initially struggling with the heat, now considers the city her home. She recounts being warmly welcomed and valued, stating that her pollera attire has never been a barrier to her leadership or capacity. She has found Santa Cruz to be a hospitable place, fostering coexistence and respect among people from various Bolivian departments who come to work and build their lives there.

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Today, I feel that the most important thing is the union between all the departments to continue growing our beloved Santa Cruz.

Reflecting on her dual identity, Condarco feels immense joy representing La Paz from her position in Santa Cruz. She is committed to serving all residents, both native Cruceños and those who have migrated. For Condarco, the most crucial aspect for Santa Cruz's continued development is the unity of all departments. She maintains the strong, tireless work ethic instilled in her from a young age in La Paz, believing in constant activity and responsiveness to people's needs rather than adhering to a rigid office schedule.

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As a woman of pollera, I feel very happy and content to represent La Paz from my role as an authority in Santa Cruz.