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The economy of the department and state of Quiche is known for its traditional artisan products such as those made with cotton, wool, or ceramic. The majority of these products are made by women.
One of these women, who has been making textile goods for two years, is 19-year-old Juana. Juana makes traditional regional blouses, called "huipiles", traditional corset 'belts' and tablecloths. As the products are very detailed, Juana employs one woman, and together the pair produce their customers' orders on time.
As Juana was only able to attend primary school for six years, she did not have the opportunity to find formal employment. With the income she earns, Juana can support her husband with household expenses, and her four-year-old daughter.
In order to continue expanding her business, Juana is applying for her fourth Kiva loan. Juana will use it to buy more materials to make "huipiles" (traditional regional blouses) and "cortes" (traditional skirts).
Alongside Juana, six other women are members of the "Naranjas de Cucabaj Friendship Bridge communal bank. They attend monthly training as part of the "Microcredito Plus" programme (which integrates loans, training, and health services). The training on finances and investments help the women to manage their businesses working with textiles, raising animals (hens, pigs and cows), and selling fruits. Other impactful areas for the women are empowerment, self-esteem, leadership, and women's entrepreneurship.
Loans funded by Kiva lenders are very important - thank you!
In this group: Tomasa Lucia , Manuela , Rosa , Maria Esperanza , Rosa , Juana Cecilia, Tomasa Rocsana
Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteer Iain Gaw. View original language description.
