Elena Beatriz

Most women in the department/state of Sololá wear Mayan clothing in order to preserve their culture. This attire consists of a traditional blouse called a huipil, a skirt known as a corte, and a sash called a faja.

For this reason, Elena (35 years old) started a business buying and selling traditional outfits five years ago. She is in a relationship with a day laborer and has two children, ages seven and fifteen. They are in school. The younger is in first grade, and the older will be starting secondary school.

Elena is a kindergarten teacher; however, due to a lack of opportunities, she is unable to practice her profession. Given this situation, she found in the buying and selling of traditional clothing a way to generate income to support her family.

Elena sells from her own shop and also by special order. She has the support of her sisters, who help tend to customers. Elena is requesting her first Kiva loan in order to increase her inventory by purchasing more traditional outfits in a variety of colors and designs requested by her customers. Her goal is to meet new demands.

Elena speaks K’iche and Spanish. Through Friendship Bridge’s Puente al Éxito program, she will be able to participate in various technical advisory sessions, both in person and online, to gain more knowledge. She will learn about inventory management, good customer service, and how to manage different expenses. These topics will surely help Elena achieve greater success. She is grateful to the Kiva lenders.

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteerLaurie Hiller. View original language description.