Children’s Emergency Relief International (CERI) achieved a significant milestone in Guatemala. We signed a landmark agreement with the Vice President of Guatemala and Carlos F. Novella Foundation to launch the “Opportunities for Young Leaders” initiative. This program is designed to provide mentorship, scholarships, and vocational and educational opportunities for youth in rural communities facing poverty and irregular migration.
The signing ceremony took place at Guatemala’s presidential palace with Vice President Karin Herrera, CERI Guatemala’s National Director, Lilly Gossmann, and CERI’s Acting Executive Director, Ian Forber-Pratt. This new partnership brings together business, government, and nonprofit resources to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed.
“…[The partnership of] the Vice Presidency, CERI and the Carlos F. Novella Foundation, is a commitment of the three entities present here with Guatemalan youth and with the future men and women who will lead the destiny of the country…they will be agents of change in their communities, protagonists of their lives and leaders of the transformation that leads us to have a Guatemala where everyone can live well…”
– Vice President of Guatemala, Karin Herrera
The Carlos F. Novella Foundation will lead the program’s operational activities, focusing on technical assistance, job skills training, and soft skills development. CERI will provide education and training to youth, aiming to strengthen their capacities and prevent irregular migration. Through this collaboration, CERI is part of social transformation in Guatemala that will provide more opportunities to young people.
“We are going to give the opportunity to many young people so that they can have an education and a dignified life.”
– Miguel Urruela Novella, president of the Carlos F. Novella Foundation
By working closely with community partners, we are shaping entire societies. Our approach ensures that youth are equipped, families are supported, and national partners are engaged in transformational change.
Click here to read the original article in Spanish.
