San José Poaquil is a picturesque town nestled in Guatemala’s central highlands. It’s home to Marisol, her mother, and four siblings. They are a tight-knit family, and Marisol grew up in a lively and loving household. 

Marisol loves learning, and when she heard about the Luminarias program, she was determined to apply. The joy of acceptance was mixed with the sadness of leaving her family, but Marisol quickly settled into life at Casa Luminarias. She enjoys the challenge of studying English at school and is learning to play the guitar.  

“For me, Luminarias is a source of support that has helped me in different areas of my life,” she says. Marisol is now in high school. She hopes to attend university one day and use her education to create positive changes in her community. She dreams of becoming a teacher, or perhaps a lawyer, so she can help vulnerable people. 

Marisol’s compassion shows in her care for others. Through Luminarias, she is gaining the education and confidence to pursue university and return to San José Poaquil with more to offer: support for her family and a voice for those who have none.