Indigenas Pedranas Group

The markets are large, colorful, and bustling, attracting many people. Paula, a 63-year-old married entrepreneur with a second-grade education, started selling cacao, chocolate, and cheeses ten years ago in her local market. A year ago, she opened a second and third business raising chickens and selling traditional blouses. The income Paula generates has been essential for her family's livelihood, as her husband is a bus driver and his income is not sufficient. She is the mother of three children (over 31 years old) who completed sixth grade and is the proud grandmother of eight. Therefore, Paula needs to buy more colorful blouses with lace trim. With a sixth Kiva loan, she will be able to acquire additional inventory.

There are eight women of Tzutuhil Maya descent who are part of the Friendship Bridge "Indigenas Pedranas" Community Bank in the department/state of Sololá. These women sell traditional blouses, weave tablecloths and traditional belts, and raise chickens. They meet monthly with a facilitator who shares useful information on four topics: business, family, women's issues, and health. Every two months, they have access to basic health services. Friendship Bridge calls this effective combination of loans, education, and health "Microcredit Plus."

These Maya women are grateful to Kiva investors around the world who fund their much-needed loans. Thank you!

In this group: Paula , Jesus , Olga Isabel , Concepcion , Sara Elizabet , Petrona , Rosa Ester , Herlinda Dolores

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteerCindy Kendall. View original language description.