A loan helped to buy more shoes to resell.


Marina Elizabeth's story

Twenty-nine-year-old Marina, a married mother of a 3-year-old daughter, studied systems engineering while working, but was unable to complete her studies. Her husband sells casual clothing from a stand in 2 different nearby markets in their community.

Marina dreams of returning to school and earning her degree. A neighbor told her about the benefits of participating in the “Microcredit Plus” program of Friendship Bridge, so she joined a Trust Bank.

Five years ago, she opened a rented locale where she sells casual clothing and shoes from the United States. She also sells belts. To generate extra income, she also draws designs on fabric that she sells to women that embroider traditional blouses called “huipiles”.

She wants to open her own shop, offer more products and employ more people. Marina wants to grow her business and develop herself! With her 1st Kiva loan, Marina can buy more shoes (top quality, second quality) from the U.S. to resell. This is Marina's first experience with Friendship Bridge. She is very hopeful that her dreams will come true.

Marina visualizes a brighter future, earning income from her businesses and learning about relevant topics (business, health, family, women) in the monthly meetings of her Trust Bank. She is committed to returning to her studies and providing an education for her daughter. She is grateful for the opportunity to request a loan from Kiva investors. Thank you to each of you!


This loan is special because:

It empowers women to build successful businesses and become leaders in their community.



Loan details


Lenders and lending teams




Loan details