Adding to basket
Maria, the secretary of the Friendship Bridge Trust Bank “La Fe” or “The Faith”, believes that where there is a will, there is a way to make things happen.
She is 34 years old and determined that her 3 children (5-13) will have a complete education. Maria was able to go to school for 6 years. She learned to weave from her mother and now weaves traditional textiles to earn an income. She weaves and sells 3 colorful traditional blouses or “huipiles” and 4 shawls or “perrajes” each week. And, she employs 4 other ladies to help her fill orders who, in turn, are able to support their own families! Maria is requesting her 3rd Kiva loan to buy a variety of high quality thread.
Maria and 7 other Maya K’iche ladies live in the Department/State of Quiche, an area known for beautiful sunsets. Women are fiercely traditional and proudly wear their colorful outfits every day.
Their businesses range from traditional textile fabrication to the sales of seasonal fruit like apples, peaches and avocados. They learn to manage their businesses in their monthly educational trainings, part of the “Microcredit Plus” program of loans, education and health care services. The ladies learn about health, hygiene, nutrition, women’s roles and self esteem. Since they often have little or no formal education, these trainings are taught by a facilitator who uses pictures, diagrams, role playing and games to share the information.
Thank you, Kiva investors, for your kindness in funding these loans!
In this group: Maria, Micaela, Lucia, Olivia, Anastasia, Maria, Lucia , Marta Zoila
