Ilia Guzmán
Lori Connell
“Thank you for making this possible. You are investing in us, helping us progress. You help us take the first step. From here, growing is the only option.”
Ilia AT A GLANCE
Married
Children: 5
Grandchildren: 1
Community: Colonia Canaan
at graduation with her daughter Daniela
Ilia Guzmán is a 2019 Mi Esperanza sewing course graduate. She is married with five children and one granddaughter. Her daughter, Daniela, is a longtime Mi Esperanza friend and an assistant teacher at the Mi Esperanza child learning center.
When asked about her experience as a student, Ilia said, “It was an amazing opportunity. I learned many new things. I can now help my husband in his tailors’ shop, where I finish all the details on the pants he makes. Doing this helps our business, and I am contributing to the family's income. I can now improve my home! I make curtains, bed sheets, masks, and many other items for my family and myself. The more I practice, the better I become. My granddaughter goes to school wearing uniforms made with my own hands!”
Daniela said about her mom, “I love that my mom took the time to take the course. Due to her time at Mi Esperanza, she has developed greater self-esteem. Her new skills and abilities have given her more confidence. I am immensely proud of her.”
Ilia is a beautiful example of a senior woman who has realized her dream of education and employment. Welcoming women like Ilia is a gift for women who have always dreamt of being educated and able to work. They are beyond grateful to help their families move ahead and have a better life. I am more independent and proud that she can generate her own income.