Hand Crafted Wood Wall Mirror from Peru, "Colonial Splendor"

As the father of eight, Marcos knows how difficult it can be to work and care for a family. At his workshop, he employs others from his community. Most are young single mothers. He ensures that they have flexible schedules that enable them to care for their children.

"When I was thirteen, a neighbor taught me the art of gold leaf... to make golden mirrors. I fell in love with this art and it has stayed with me all my life. Eventually I set up my own workshop and I have been able to teach this art to younger workers. I am proud of this - gold leaf has been an important Peruvian art since colonial times and once there were many workshops. Now my workshop is one of the few that produce gold leaf mirrors. To pass this art to the next generation is one of the gifts I have been given."

Marcos Luzalde has received 8 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1500 and the most recent for $1300. Proceeds were used to buy supplies and tools for his workshop.

Marcos has eight children, and his youngest daughter is still attending school. He hopes that the education he provides will give her a brilliant future and that she will realize all her dreams.

Novica sales support Marcos' family and the families of his workers. They provide a steady income, enabling him to maintain his workshop and provide jobs for others in his community.

Marcos has faced many difficulties. But he finds strength in knowing that his hard work will help to give his daughter a brilliant future.

Through the years, Marcos has grown his workshop. He is now able to provide work for other artisans in his community.