Guatemala is a country full of natural beauty, rich Maya traditions and very colorful clothing. Andrea, a 41 year old married mother of 3 children (16-22) who weaves beautiful wrap around tube skirts or “cortes” that are proudly worn by Maya ladies. After 6 years of school, her children decided to help with the family business so they joined Andrea and her husband weaving “cortes” that Andrea sells in two nearby markets. She is able to cover household expenses with the income. Styles are constantly changing and Andrea wants to be competitive in the market. She is requesting her 6th Kiva loan to buy a quantity of high quality threads in various colors.

Ten ladies, including Andrea, have formed the Friendship Bridge Trust Bank “Mujeres Emprendedoras Nimasac” in the department/state of Quetzaltenango. The monthly educational sessions, part of the “Microcredit Plus” program, gives them essential business tools that they use in their convenience stores, poultry and textile businesses. They learn about health, nutrition, hygiene and how to navigate through the pandemic. Another “plus” in the program is access to bi-monthly health care. A visiting nurse offers all kinds of exams and services to the ladies. This is especially important because the public healthcare system in Guatemala is sadly lacking.

Thank you, Kiva lenders, for your kindness in funding these much appreciated loans! Andrea and her friends are poised to step into a brighter future!