These three different stories, united by a desire to improve, demonstrate — as highlighted by González — that when a mother receives institutional support, an entire family begins to dream of a better future.
In the Ngäbe-Buglé comarca, far from the capital, along dirt roads and zinc roofs that withstand the winter, Edgar, Marelis, and Yoalys set off early for their schools. Their mother, Mitzila Rodríguez, also a beneficiary of the Opportunities Network, takes them to school every morning and then walks long distances to sell handicrafts.
Despite the adversities, 12-year-old Edgar Rodríguez is the second-highest achieving student at Cerro Ote Educational Center. His 10-year-old sister, Marelis, is an honor student with a 4.4 average. Yoalys Yarabís Rodríguez, just 8 years old, is in second grade at Hato Chamí School with a 4.6 average. Her report card reflects discipline: 4.9 in arts and technology, 4.8 in English, and 4.7 in math and Spanish.
Yoalys lives in a simple wooden and zinc house, but it is filled with everything she needs to study. Her school folder holds not only grades but also dreams. Every bracelet sold means food, a uniform, and sometimes, a few more notebooks.
"I have the best mother in the world; she gives me everything I need," says Yoalys, reviewing her notebooks on a wooden table. "I love my mom very much. When I become a doctor, I will give her a house," she assures.
Edgar is already clear on his goal: he wants to be a police officer. He imagines himself wearing the Kepy, boots, and a tactical belt, serving his community and contributing to its security.
"I am very proud of my children," says Mitzila, who was only able to attend primary school. "What I want is for my daughter to go further than I did."
Their teacher, Flor Santamaría, sums it up in a short phrase: "She is an exemplary student." She hopes her example will inspire other children to strive for more, because when there is a will, anything is possible.
Pablo González, the comarcal director of Mides, states that the stories of Edgar, Marelis, and Yoalys are inspiring and exemplify the good use of economic transfers. "The Opportunities Network aims to support mothers like Olivia and Mitzila, who live in vulnerable situations. With this support, thousands of mothers can buy notebooks, books, pencils, shoes, uniforms, and the materials their children need to continue their studies. We seek that, through these transfers, they develop sustainable businesses," affirmed González.
In the Ngäbe-Buglé comarca alone, there are 16,331 beneficiary women, many with realities similar to Edgar's, Marelis's, and Yoalys's. Throughout the country, the program reaches 41,979 women with school-aged children.
