Santos Filomena

Education is essential in helping women eliminate poverty as they learn about women’s rights/roles, as well as family planning and healthy habits including the importance of good nutrition and hygiene.

Fifty-three-year-old Santos had only two years of formal education and then left school behind. She is married and has eight adult children who range in age from 17 to 32. The youngest son completed the seventh grade and the oldest has a high school diploma as a kindergarten teacher. The rest of the children only completed the sixth grade.

Santos’ business is selling shoes in a community in the department/state of San Marcos. For 10 years, she has sold shoes in the local market for men, women and children. One of her daughters helps her with the business as a street vendor. Her husband sells shoes as well. Her goals are to enlarge the business and open branches in neighboring communities and departments. She requests her second Kiva loan to buy more shoes.

Santos participates in the Friendship Bridge “Bridge to Success” program because she is determined to empower and educate herself as a woman and entrepreneur. By participating in this worthwhile program, she will gain knowledge, confidence, and targeted training designed for her specific business needs and goals.

Kiva lenders, collaborating with Friendship Bridge, are helping Santos educate herself and move ahead. Thank you to each of you for your kindness in helping Santos empower herself!