When I was fourteen years old, just a child myself, I started my life with my partner and left my parent’s home. That’s when my studies ended for me. Even though I’m just 30, I have five kids. It’s been difficult to survive economically. We don’t have access to public transportation. To get to the city we have to walk 3km to the nearest bus stop. We’re located in the dry corridor; there isn’t any work, except for when it’s coffee season. 

Mayra shares the challenging reality that many Nicaraguan women face. With difficulty to economic resources and local cities, families continue in the cycle of poverty for generations. But thanks to CEPAD’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Program, Mayra is breaking that cycle for her family.

This program has changed my life. I’ve been taught to face life in a different way. After learning new tools, I was given a starting fund of C7,000 ($195). I used this money to open up my own corner store. My hope was to provide a service to my community that we didn’t have. 

Thanks to the seed fund that opened my business, I now run an inventory of C22,000 ($610). I’m able to offer basic items like rice, sugar, coffee, bread, oil, and basic medicine. 

With the earnings from my business, my family’s life has improved. We’ve been learning about how to use our resources well. My partner supports me in my business ideas. He’s been a pushing force, motivate me to continue forward. 

I feel as though I’ve learned so many new things and have done things I never imagined I’d be able to. I can have my business, keep track of my accounting records, buy, sell, all because of the workshops I attended. I feel empowered and strengthened to work to see my kids grow up differently than I did. 

Thanks to YOU, Mayra is changing her life and those of her family. To empower more women like Mayra, join us here.