Adding to basket
Seven Maya Kaqchikel ladies have formed the Friendship Bridge Trust Bank “Flor de Cafe Xenacoj” in the department/state of Sacatepéquez in the Central Highlands of Guatemala.
They all have traditional textile businesses and weave/sew/embroider the colorful outfits that are proudly worn by the indigenous women in the Highlands. They are excited to begin their 1st loan cycle with KIVA. The ladies meet monthly with a Facilitator from Friendship Bridge to make payments on their loans and then participate in educational training which is part of the “Microcredit Plus” program (loans + education). These sessions are vital to their success and cover topics related to women, families, health and business. Since the women have little or no formal education, they learn through games, role playing, pictures and diagrams.
Juana, a 52-year-old mother of 9 children (10-37) is a member of the group with no formal education. She has worked hard in her traditional textile business so that each of her children can have an education. Some are currently enrolled in primary and secondary schools. Due to the high demand for her textiles, Juana is requesting a loan to buy a variety of colorful thread. Also due to the popularity of her textiles, she has 3 employees who in turn are able to help support their own families. Her goals are to enlarge her business and sell in other markets.
Juana and her friends are creating real pathways out of poverty. Thank you, KIVA investors, for providing capital for their loans.
In this group: Juana, Maria Amparo, Gricelda Nohemi, Virgilia, Sandra Isabel, Catalina Laboure, Rosalba
