Lorena Backpack

When Marta Julia stopped attending school after sixth grade, she thought her life would only consist of getting married, having children, and taking care of her home. But life changed for the better – economically and psychologically – when she started working with Mercado Global. Today, she has helped launch a Mercado Global artisan co-op in her community of San Jorge, Guatemala, and is an inspiration to her daughter, Dulce.'Before, I thought I would always have to stay at home, taking care of the house,' Marta Julia said. 'But in Mercado Global, I learned women are capable of so much more than that. Women also have rights.'Marta Julia started at the entry level and learned to make bags. Then she became an instructor to other women, motivating them for success. 'My children are the ones who motivate me to keep fighting. I’m doing this all for them. And for myself, too,' Marta Julia said. 'My dream for my children is for them to have the education I never had.'

Marta Julia, San Jorge, Guatemala

Esther Nohemi García Mach is a 34-year-old mother of four who has been attending the women's training center in San Raymundo since 2015. Despite the limited economic opportunities in her region, Esther embraced the chance to learn cutting and sewing. Her newfound skills allowed her to start a small business, creating suits, costumes, uniforms, and more, providing her with a steady income and the ability to support her household.

Esther Nohemi García Mach, 34, Guatemala City