Mujeres De Maguey Group

The embroideries of the municipalities on the shores of the lake in the department / state of Sololá are famous for "huipiles" (traditional blouses) made by hand. The women use techniques that employ silk threads (sedalina) and are decorated with lace and crochet, often adorned with pearls, representing the Tz'utujil culture.

Estefani, age 23, is a single mother who lives with her parents. She is a teacher by profession. She shares that the business of embroidery has been her source of income for two years. Monthly she is able to embroider three items, because she also works as a cook in a small restaurant to generate additional income. Estefani requests her third Kiva loan to buy high quality fabric and thread. 

In the communal bank "Mujeres de Maguey" of Friendship Bridge there are seven women of Maya Tzutuhil descent, who are between 23 and 50 years of age. They have joined together to participate in the "Microcrédito Plus" program that offers loans, education, and basic health services. The women have tortilla shops, sell snacks, and are embroiderers. They eagerly await their monthly meetings, where they make loan payments and participate in educational training.  The topics are relevant to their lives and are drawn from four areas: business, health, family, and women's issues. Every two months, they have access to basic health services. 

Estefani says: “Thank you, Kiva lenders, for financing these loans that are so necessary." 

In this group: Estefani Rosmery , Catarina , Blanca Azucena, Antonia, Maria Elena, Sandy Adela, Maria

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteerJoann S. View original language description.