Ana Maria Guillen (pictured right) and her husband Juan Carlos own and operate a corner store in Cartagena, Colombia. Together they sell everything from paper supplies, cell phone minutes, candies, sandals and an assortment of food. In addition to their selling of goods, they also own two copy machines that they rent out to the local schools to generate income and meet a demand in their community.

They started this business three years ago as a stand that only sold cell phone minutes. With the help of financial services catered to meet their needs – microfinance – they have been able to grow their business and diversify their store. Because of their success and now in her third loan with Opportunity International, Ana Maria is able to receive larger amounts outside of the traditional Trust Group model that can better allow for the continued expansion of her store. She’s now hoping to secure a fourth loan of 2 million pesos ($1,060 CDN) to increase her stock in preparation for the upcoming festivals.

From this now diversified business, Ana Maria is able to continue to expand her business and help pay the school fees for her sons, Juan Carlos and Yovanni.

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