Quetzaltenango is a bustling state/department in the Western Highlands of Guatemala. Its population is approximately 60+ percent indigenous Maya speaking K'iche and Mam, although the official language is Spanish. In a rural area, seven enthusiastic women in the Friendship Bridge Trust Bank "Cielo" are about to begin their third loan cycle with Kiva.
Quetzaltenango is made up of good agricultural terrain. In one such area, 32-year-old Dora has a farm growing a variety of produce — lettuce, radishes and onions. She sells her produce wholesale in one of the largest markets in the state. Because of the high demand for her produce, she is requesting a loan to buy a large quantity of lettuce seeds in order to grow more for her customers.
Dora has a dream of creating a better quality of life for herself and her family. She knows she will be able to do so as she acquires more knowledge through the Friendship Bridge program of education + loans called "Microcredit Plus." Dora likes the monthly valuable lessons in one of four topic areas: business, health, family and women. She especially likes the themes in business management that include controlling expenses, saving and investing. These topics help her expand her business. This helps her feel more empowered and raises her self-esteem.
Dora and her friends are very grateful to Kiva lenders for their generous support that helps them realize their dreams and create a brighter future for themselves and their families. Thank you!
In this group: Maria Cristina, Sara Maribel, Ofelia Clementa, Maria Roberta, Dora Ursula, Mayra Yamilet, Jackelline Gabriela