Tzanjuyu Chaquijya Central Group

Rosa is 44 years old, married, and the mother of 3 daughters all older than 22 years old. Two of her daughters study at the university. Rosa is also a grandmother of two grandchildren. She studied in school until sixth grade because the family's financial situation didn't allow her to continue her education. Her husband works as a day laborer.

For 20 years, Rosa has worked making huipiles (traditional blouses) and bracelets with decorative stones, products which she sells to order. Thanks to high demand, Rosa employs three women to help with orders and manages to produce around 3,000 items per month. 

With this first Kiva loan, Rosa wants to buy decorative stones of different colors and thread in bulk which will allow her to increase production. Her goal is to have her own store where she can display and better sell her products, strengthening her business and creating more job opportunities in the community. 

The ten Mayan Kaqchikel women of the Friendship Bridge “Tzanjuyu Chaquijya Central” communal bank plan to invest capital in their businesses which include making textiles, making bracelets, and managing convenience stores. These women receive training as part of the Microcredit Plus program from Friendship Bridge where they learn about saving and smart investments. They also have bimonthly visits from a nurse who provides a variety of health services. 

Thanks! 

In this group: Maria Reyna , Florentina, Maria , Rosa , Isabel , Juana , Gladys Fabiola , Candelaria , Neolina , Amalia Olinda

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteerLesa Sexton. View original language description.