Our coffee team is made up of some absolutely incredible women. From time to time, we'd like to begin telling you a bit more about them individually.
Let us introduce you to Mariela.
With much sacrifice, Mariela obtained her high school degree and has managed to continue studying at the university. Thanks to her work at San Lazaro, she is currently achieving her dream of studying law so she can care for those most in need.
Mariela recently had the privilege of being able to share her life experience at our ribbon cutting for Lazarus Academy, including all she has had to go through to get where she is. Her speech was given in front of media, members of the community and students. How awesome is it to see her inspiring the next generation to rise above their circumstances and succeed?
Her team members say Mariela shows effort and dedication in her studies as well as in her work. They describe her as a cheerful young woman, always willing to support her colleagues and the farm, dynamic and positive in all she does. Way to go, Mariela! Thank you for the great example you set for all of us.
In the quiet La Botija mountains of southern Honduras, something beautiful is happening. It’s not just coffee being cultivated at San Lazaro Coffee — it’s hope. Neyli Cruz, 23 years old, is a shining example of that hope. Originally from the small community of San Pedro del Norte, Nicaragua, Neyli was no stranger to hardship.
Mayela, a 17-year-old from a small village surrounded by green mountains, lives with her grandfather. God has gifted her with a heart full of dreams and a deep passion for nature. Her educational journey began at Lazarus Academy, where she not only gained theoretical knowledge but also developed values that shaped her as a person. Upon graduating high school, Mayela knew her story was just beginning. She decided to enroll in a forestry program, determined to help preserve the environment of her beloved homeland.
At 24 years old there were not many opportunities for Karla. She was newly married and had a young daughter. The rugged rural mountains where she had grown up and lived in her entire life hadn’t afforded much. In particular she didn’t have the opportunity to continue learning in high school. But what she did learn was how to work. Both Karla and her husband were committed to helping their young family get ahead. He farmed and she worked anywhere she could, often picking tomatoes or peppers for farmers in the region. The days were long, the pay was bad, and the treatment was worse.
