The beautiful traditional clothing of the Mayas is used by the majority of the proud indigenous women of Guatemala. It consists of a woven wraparound skirt called a "corte", an embroidered blouse called a "huipil", and a crafted belt called a "faja". Magdalena, a married, 38-year-old woman and mother of eight kids (who are 5-20 years old), embroiders cortes. She has been doing this for eighteen years and has two years of formal education. With the earning she obtains from her business, Magdalena has been able to provide her older children an elementary education while the other two children are in second grade. With her first Kiva loan, Magdalena can buy more traditional fabrics.

Magdalena is one of the seven Maya Kaqchiquel women who live in the department/state of Sacatepéquez who form part of the Communal Bank called Puente de Amistad, Sector Guadalupe [Friendship Bridge, Guadalupe Sector]. These women work in their traditional textile businesses, flower cultivation, and traditional clothing sales. They are dedicated to being successful and it pleases them to participate in the loan program Microcredit Plus, monthly educational interactive training, and bi-monthly medical attention services. The program is essential for them to empower themselves and create a better life. They appreciate learning about effective business management practices and aspects of women and family. Every two months they have access to basic health attention services that include consultations, exams, and family planning provided by a visiting nurse.

Thank you to the Kiva creditors for the support.