Costureras De Semeja Group

Maricela is twenty-seven years old, has a sixth-grade education, is single, and lives with her parents. Fifteen years ago, she began to weave traditional skirts called cortes, which she sells to order. The business is growing and she currently has ten workers who support with the production of forty traditional skirts a week. Maricela also raises chickens, sheep, and pigs.

With a second Kiva loan, she would like to purchase a variety of thread wholesale. She will also purchase more pigs, sheep, and chickens. Maricela envisions having a prosperous business, employing more people in her community, and increasing her income to continue sustaining her expenses.

Maricela is the secretary of the Friendship Bridge communal bank Costureras Semeja in the department/state of Quiché. There are six other women in the group who also raise animals, weave traditional skirts, embroider blouses and make crocheted balls. They get monthly educational training, part of the Microcrédito Plus program. It provides them with essential information about relevant topics such as business, health, family matters (nutrition, hygiene) and women's issues (self-esteem, empowerment, rights/roles). Due to having little or not formal education, the training is very important for their empowerment and growth.

The women of this communal bank are grateful for the kindness and generosity of the Kiva lenders from all parts of the world. Thank you!

In this group: Jeronima Canil, Ana , Marisela , Candelaria , Celestina , Maria , Margarita

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteerWendy H. View original language description.