Andrea Rodríguez, youth and leadership

Andrea Rodríguez, originally from San Lorenzo, a small town in Ahuachapán where life revolves around the countryside, lived a transformative experience at the age of 19 that not only allowed her to grow as a person, but also to become a role model of leadership in her community.

From a young age, agriculture was a fundamental part of her life. Her family had worked the land for generations, and although Andrea was familiar with traditional farming practices, she felt a deep desire to learn more and see the future in a different way.

It was in 2022 that she had the opportunity to participate in the Agricultural Summer School, organized by RAÍCES EL SALVADOR and the Colibrí Steering Committee, an experience that would completely change her perspective. During that school, Andrea immersed herself in activities related to conservation agriculture, an approach she knew very little about.

Andrea participating in the Escuela de Verano Agrícola (Agricultural Summer School) 2022.

At the Summer Agricultural School, he learned about cover crops, the importance of not burning weeds, and other simple practices that could make a big difference in agricultural production. He decided to share this new knowledge with his family, and together they began applying the techniques on their plot of land. The results were quick to follow: healthier harvests and a cleaner environment.

Discovering New Cultures and Broadening Horizons

As her involvement in agricultural activities grew, Andrea had the opportunity to attend international camps with young people from other Central American countries. These exchanges not only allowed her to learn about new cultures but also reinforced her passion for agriculture. It was then that she understood that young people had a vital role to play, not only in agriculture but in all aspects of community life.

Soon after, Andrea decided to join the Colibrí Youth Steering Committee, where she took on more responsibilities, excelling in managing activities, including the rotating leadership system in which all young people, regardless of their experience, had a voice and a vote. This working model taught her to listen to others, value her peers' ideas, and work as a team.

Andrea (standing, right) participating as part of the Colibrí Youth Promotion Committee in a regional exchange.

Challenges and Obstacles Along the Way

However, Andrea's path was not without its challenges. On several occasions, she faced skepticism from some adults who didn't believe in young people's ability to lead. She especially remembers a time when she was told she was too young to lead an agricultural project. However, far from being discouraged, those words gave her more strength and determination to prove that, although young, she could make a difference.

Today, Andrea's commitment to agriculture remains strong. Through the Steering Committee and the opportunities she has received, she is convinced that the key to success lies in never giving up, in continuing to fight for what you believe in, regardless of the difficulties. Her message to other young people is clear: " Don't let anyone tell you that you can't. There will always be opportunities for those who dare to dream and work for their future. "

A Future to Build

This is just the beginning of Andrea's journey. Her desire is to continue learning, sharing her knowledge, and, most importantly, inspiring more young people, because she is convinced that the future is in their hands and, together, they can achieve great things.