From Self-Doubt to Self-Confidence: This Is Carolina’s Story
Carolina’s journey is one of resilience, growth, and self-discovery. The challenges of her mother’s illness, the pandemic, and struggles in her marriage once left her feeling alone and uncertain of her worth. Through Convoy of Hope’s Women’s Empowerment program, Carolina found guidance, skills, and encouragement that transformed her life in El Salvador. Today, she is a mother, entrepreneur, and mentor, proudly building businesses, supporting her children, and helping other women embrace their own value and potential.
Read her story below.
“I used to sell traditional food in a small basket at the school, but during the pandemic, my mother became ill, and I couldn’t continue. I decided to buy sweaters to sell in front of a restaurant, where I had to pay a dollar to be allowed to sell. One day, a friend invited me to join Convoy of Hope’s Women’s Empowerment program. I asked her if there was a fee, and she said no, that I just needed to attend the talks and workshops, so I said yes.
I arrived at the program center, and the leader there told me I could be part of the Mothers Club. I shared with her that I was struggling with my mother’s health and issues in my relationship with my husband due to infidelity. At that time, I felt alone, believing I couldn’t move forward and that I wasn’t valuable as a woman.
After a year in the Mothers Club, I realized how valuable we are as women and how precious my children are. They taught me to love myself and not to wait for someone else to do it for me. I separated from my husband; he has another family now, but I know I can move forward. The process wasn’t easy, but here I am, believing in myself and my children.
I learned in the workshops how to make piñatas, bonsai trees, and shampoo. With these skills, I’ve been able to help others who are going through depression.
Later, I received seed capital, which I used to start a clothing business, and now I have a second business selling traditional food.
I am speechless. Convoy of Hope is an organization that helps us and has been a tremendous support for me and my children.
I’ve been able to buy a griddle for pupusas, a stove for frying potatoes, and a gas tank. I’m also remodeling my business — replacing tin sheets with drywall and adding tables so customers can enjoy their food on site.
Additionally, I can now buy clothes and other necessities for my daughter. I’ve also been able to improve my appearance and change how I dress.
My daughter has been part of the Girls’ Empowerment group for three years, and last year I was given the opportunity to lead workshops for other women.
My dream is to own land and a car, and I know I can achieve it.”
