Scholarship Program: Stories That Inspire

Odres Nuevos – Guatemala

Our partner Odres Nuevos walks alongside young people from vulnerable communities, helping them prioritize their education without losing sight of the responsibilities they carry at home. The stories of Vicenta and Juan David, both from Cucabaj Primero, show what this kind of support can make possible.

Vicenta is 15 years old. From an early age, she began selling popcorn to help her family and cover personal expenses — at one point, she even considered making it her full-time work. But thanks to the support she received and the people who believed in her future, she now has a scholarship that allows her to stay in school. She is currently in her fourth year of the Business Administration Technician program and, while she still sells popcorn during certain seasons, her focus is her education. She also participates in the Entrepreneurship Program and attends Children’s Church on Saturdays, balancing her studies, her faith, and her personal growth.

Juan David is 18 years old and has been selling ice cream to support his family for several years. He continues this work after his school day, while studying in his sixth year of the Electronics Technician program, making time during weekends, local fairs, and community events for his sales. His journey has been accompanied by an Odres Nuevos volunteer who, in her role as a teacher, believed in his potential and helped him build his confidence and self-esteem.

Stories like those of Vicenta and Juan David are a reminder that, even when the path is hard, young people with opportunity, support, and someone in their corner can choose to study, grow, and build a better future.