Adding to basket
Convenience stores in Guatemala are an economic pillar in communities, as they offer essential products for families and, at the same time, represent a livelihood opportunity for many entrepreneurial women. One of them is Ady (41 years old). She is a widow and mother of two children, ages ten and fifteen, who are in 3rd and 8th grade. Although she is fully trained as a teacher, she does not practice, and for the past eight years, she has been managing a convenience store in a rented space. Her eldest son helps her run the business, allowing her to keep it active and well attended. With the Kiva loan, Ady will invest in basic household products, beverages, and snacks. Her goal is to better stock her store, expand her product variety, increase her income, and ensure stability for her family.
From the Department/State of Suchitepéquez, Ady leads seven other Spanish-speaking women who form the group “Las Gaviotas.” They run businesses such as convenience stores, fish farming, and tortilla production. Thanks to the “Microcredit Plus” program, they receive loans combined with education, where they learn about good business management and entrepreneurship.
With the support of Kiva lenders, Ady and her partners strengthen their businesses, better serve their communities, and pave the way toward a future with more opportunities.
In this group: Ady Nagahi, Vilma Lorena , Olga Marina, Ana Maria , Antonieta , Ana , Gladys Ermocelia, Berta Lilia
Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteer Timothy Llewellyn-Davies. View original language description.
