Driven by a desire to improve the quality of life for the Pemon Indigenous community, my thesis project focused on designing functional footwear that addressed these environmental challenges. My goal was to create a solution that provides protection and functionality while respecting and incorporating the cultural heritage of the Pemon people and that would serve as tool to improve their work as the designated tour guides of Canaima National Park in Venezuela.

As the designer, developer, and prototyper, I engaged with the Pemon community to understand their needs and preferences. This user research informed the creation of footwear designs that offer optimal protection against rugged terrain and moisture while ensuring comfort and cultural relevance. I developed and tested prototypes to ensure optimized traction, comfort, fast-drying, and durability in the park's challenging conditions. Additionally, I sourced sustainable materials that align with the environmental values of Pemon and the preservation of Canaima National Park.