Led by Youth, Changing Classrooms
In the community of El Bejuco, Silvana Zelaya (34) serves alongside youth leaders Maryen Hernández (17), Jenifer Carrazco (18), and Seleny Carrazco (18), supporting children like Diego Rojas (8), a second-grade student in the after-school tutoring program. Together, they are part of Plan 7, leading educational support for children who are falling behind in school.
Before this tutoring that these youth are leading, many children in the community struggled with basic learning. Some could not read, recognize letters, or understand math concepts like multiplication and division. Classrooms were crowded, and teachers had limited time to give individual attention. At home, many parents wanted to help but lacked the tools or time to support their children academically.
Through leadership training, mentoring, and tutoring materials, these young women stepped into a new role—serving their community through after-school tutoring. Today, they lead learning sessions where children review lessons, practice reading, and strengthen math skills in a safe and encouraging environment.
“The tutoring has helped them a lot,” Silvana shares. “Some didn’t know the tables or division, and now they do. They are progressing a lot.”
