Adding to basket
Lisbeth, a 41-year-old single woman who lives with her mother, has a sixth grade education. Her father passed away. She took sewing classes for two years and then apprenticed with her mother, who is a seamstress. Twenty years ago, Lisbeth took over her mother’s business. She quickly expanded the business and began to sew party dresses. Five years later, she added blouses and pants. She has a workshop in her home. With her second Kiva loan, she can buy a variety of fabrics, as well as cones of thread.
Six women have elected Lisbeth to be the president of their Friendship Bridge Trust Bank “Amistad” or “Friendship” in the department/state of Huehuetenango. Collectively, they have convenience stores, raise chickens and cattle, sell personal care products via catalogue, and have tortilla shops or “tortillerias”. They are excited about participating in their monthly educational training because they have little or no formal education. Topics like health, self esteem, as well as women’s rights and roles empower them as women. Learning about effective business management practices helps them become competent entrepreneurs. Becoming aware of hygiene, nutrition, and the use of medicinal plants is essential to their wellbeing and that of their families. These trainings are part of the “Microcredit Plus” program of Friendship Bridge.
Thank you, Kiva investors, for lending a helping hand!
In this group: Lisbeth Ivonne, Morelia Carolina, Marina, Gladys Adileny, Rebeca Dalila , Ana Maria , Floridalma Yanira
