A loan helped to buy clothing, handicrafts, traditional dolls, hats, and possibly a metal roll-down shutter for the front door of the business.


Ana Patricia's story

Ana, a 42-year-old mother of a 20 year-old-daughter, separated from her husband one year ago. She lives in the department/state of Solola. She remembers her parents with a great deal of love. The family was quite poor and so she was able to stay in school for only 9 years. Her father did not earn much as a day laborer. Later, he had enough to buy a small restaurant, and her mother took care of their home. Both of them have died. However, Ana has inherited the small restaurant from her father that is very close to the beach of Lake Atitlan. Her daughter, who was enrolled in the university for 1 ½ years, helps her with the restaurant. (She left her studies due to an accident.) Ana has remodeled the restaurant and now offers traditional clothing and handicrafts in one part. She also has a stall where she sells all kinds of drinks, natural fresh juices, and slushes. She has one employee.

She could use a Kiva loan to buy clothing, handicrafts, traditional dolls, hats, and possibly a metal roll down shutter for the front door of the business.

A client of Friendship Bridge told her about the “Bridge to Success” program of loans. On a weekly basis, she will be able to receive personalized training for business growth and financial advice. She is currently saving money to buy a piece of land and build her own home.

Ana is a wonderful example of a dedicated woman, mother, and entrepreneur, who is determined to create a brighter and more prosperous future. Thank you, Kiva!


This loan is special because:

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



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Loan details