San Isidro Group

Small businesses are essential in Guatemalan communities, as many women generate income and contribute financially to their homes. This is the case of Dina, thirty-four years old, who started her business four years ago. She is married and the mother of three children (15 to 19), who are high school and university students. Dina only has six years of formal education since she became pregnant at the young age of fifteen. She sells personal care products, cleaning products, and silver jewelry, on request and on the street. In addition, Dina sells lunches and snacks twice a week on request. She has the support of an employee to be able to prepare her recipes. Dina is requesting a loan from Kiva with the goal of buying more beauty products and jewelry. With these goods, she will be able to increase the business's inventory and generate more profits.

“San Isidro” is the name of the Communal Bank of Dina and seven other Spanish-speaking women. These women are from the Department/State of Quetzaltenango. Dina and the other women sell food, products from a catalog, new casual clothing, a bookstore, and a tortilla factory. At monthly meetings, a Friendship Bridge Facilitator shares useful information with these women (business, health, family, women) using images, role-plays, and games. The topics they highlight are about entrepreneurship, savings, and health.

Thank you, Kiva lender.

In this group: Dina Leticia , Dorcas Nohemi , Brenda Leticia , Dalila Nohemi , Petronila , Ana Luisa, Ofelia, Dina Altagracia

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteerDennis Dunphy. View original language description.