Rooted in Dreams: A Young Woman’s Path to Change
The morning mist clings to the hills as Mayela steps onto the damp earth, the scent of coffee blossoms filling the air. From the time she was a child, she felt an unbreakable bond with the land—its rivers, its forests, its towering mountains. But in a region where opportunities for young people are scarce, dreams like hers often go unrealized.
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.
It wasn’t long before Mayela discovered an opportunity to become an intern at San Lazaro Coffee, a farm known for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and reforestation. From her first day, she felt at home, inspired by the mission to cultivate high-quality, shade-grown coffee while protecting the surrounding forests. Nestled near the La Botija Biosphere Reserve, a designated World Heritage Site, the farm plays a vital role in conservation efforts, ensuring that the region’s rich biodiversity and water sources remain intact.
During her internship, Mayela excelled—not only because of her dedication to the work but because of her humility. Whether she was helping create trails, managing organic fertilizers, or participating in team discussions, she embraced every challenge with a sense of purpose. She also found inspiration in the women-led workforce at the farm, where female coffee producers play a crucial role in harvesting and processing some of Honduras’ finest beans.
But Mayela’s time at the farm wasn’t just about learning sustainable agriculture—it also deepened her spiritual journey. She saw how caring for creation and caring for people go hand in hand, and this inspired her to dedicate her life to environmental advocacy.
In just a short time, Mayela has left her mark on our team, and in turn, her internship has left a profound mark on her life. With a broader vision, she is ready to lead change, hoping to inspire other rural youth to continue their education, believe in their dreams, and protect the natural world around them.
This is the kind of transformation you support when you purchase coffee from San Lázaro Coffee. Thank you!
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