Flor Cotzalense 1 Group

Ana is 50 years old and illiterate since her parents couldn't afford to support her education. When she was seven, she started working in a cafeteria, where she stayed for a long time to help her family cover expenses. Later, she moved to Guatemala City to earn a better income and be able to better support her family.  She married at 26 and had three children. Her husband passed away eight months ago. 

She learned about the loans for women offered by the Chajulense Association of Women United for Life from a fellow member.  This year, she will receive her third loan. With the first, she started her traditional weaving business, and this year she will expand her huipil weaving business by purchasing high-quality yarn.

She is very satisfied with the loans she has received, as they have allowed her to earn a good profit.  Ana is the leader of the Flor Cotzalense 1 group, which consists of six women, all from the Ixil Maya ethnic group. The group will invest 100% of its loans in textiles. On average, each member of the group has 3 children, and the average age of the group members is 34. 17% are illiterate, 50% did not complete primary school, 16% completed primary school, and 17% graduated from high school (eleventh grade).

In this group: Ana, Ana, Ana, Catalina Alicia, Catarina Angelica, Catarina Seferina

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteerDennis Dunphy. View original language description.