In eastern Guatemala, where the Río Dulce meets the Gulf of Honduras, lies the town of Livingston. Livingston is home to Rosaria and her family. As children, Rosaria and her ten siblings attended their local school, but the town’s remoteness meant they had no options for higher education. When Rosaria was thirteen, her family heard about Luminarias. With their encouragement, Rosaria applied and was offered a place in the program.  

Before joining Luminarias, Rosaria had never had the chance to play a musical instrument or use a computer. Today, she plays the piano, practices karate, and is a confident public speaker. Rosaria hopes to become a social worker to support families facing hardships. She graduated from high school in 2025 and will spend the next year working with Luminarias while she studies English. The year ahead will allow her to gain practical experience in service and mentoring, and to inspire girls on a journey similar to her own.  

It took great courage to leave her family and travel so far in pursuit of a new life, but Rosaria’s bravery and her parents’ trust have opened new possibilities. She has grown from a quiet girl into a confident, compassionate young woman. Now, with the Luminarias team behind her, she is ready to help shape the lives of others, offering inspiration, guidance, and hope for the future.