In the diverse heritage of Peru's cultural landscape lies the Sacred Urubamba Valley, a stronghold of ancient traditions and practices dating back to the time of the Incas. Amid modernization and globalization, the Quelqanqa community stands out as a symbol of Indigenous resilience, fiercely preserving their ancestral knowledge and way of life. However, the community faces various challenges, including tensions with government authorities, the influence of external NGOs, and the commercialization of their culture by the tourism industry. This research explores the power dynamics, cultural preservation efforts, and aspirations of the Quelqanqa community. Through a collaborative design approach, it aims to empower the community to reclaim control over their traditions and knowledge. Three main objectives guided this study: 1) understanding how priorities are negotiated with NGOs and local governments, 2) unraveling power dynamics within the community and its interactions with external stakeholders, and 3) exploring the potential of collaborative design approaches in fostering community-led decision-making processes. The methodology involved a series of workshops and interviews conducted within the Quelqanqa community, supplemented by insights from relevant NGOs and local government officials. Through group activities and open discussions, participants engaged in dialogue about internal power dynamics, external influences, and strategies for cultural preservation. This research revealed a surprisingly empowered Quelqanqa community, with a remarkably well-organized power structure that often goes unrecognized by outsiders. While some perceive the community as underdeveloped in terms of governance, this study reveals that the Quelqanqa community excels in democratic decision-making within the community and with external actors. They demonstrate skills in priority setting, negotiation dynamics, and collaboration, effectively navigating relationships with stakeholders.