sewing machine — Blog

José Enrique Choc Xicay

Chimaltenango, Guatemala

José Enrique Choc Xicay is 40 years old. He has a successful small business in Chimaltenango, which he runs from a room in the back of his house. His business is in making clothing, wedding gowns and accessories, karate uniforms, and anything else that can be made with a sewing machine and fabric. He employs 4 staff members, and pays them very well, plus bonuses when selling is good. José previously worked as a traveling salesman, moving to a different place every day to sell his goods. One day he was robbed, and lost everything. This marked the end of this business. With a little help from his uncle, he managed to get a sewing machine, and started with a small business in sewing, which continues to grow. His business is now very successful and he does very well. José works 7 days a week, only taking 3 days off each year. He very much enjoys his work, and is very proud of what he has created. His dream is to one day buy a farm for his family to enjoy growing their own produce and riding horses.