We are very proud and excited to share Evelyn’s success story. She graduated a few weeks ago as a Biosystems Engineer, and thanks to the support of people like you, she now has a brighter future ahead.
| Four years ago, at just 17, I left my community with hope trembling in my chest and a suitcase full of dreams. I grew up in an environment where resources were limited, but the love and strength of my family were always present. My dreams were clear: I wanted to study, learn, help others, and one day return to my community equipped with real tools to transform it. However, honestly, I didn’t always know how I would achieve that. Many times, I felt like opportunities were out of reach. Then I found the Gibson Soto Foundation. From day one, this institution was much more than support; it was a door that opened when I needed it most—a real opportunity to build the life I had imagined. I clearly remember the day I was accepted as part of this community of brave women. Not only did I cry tears of joy, but I also felt that my efforts up to that point had been rewarded with this amazing opportunity. Here, I found a new family who have since become friends and even sisters, guides who have supported me without wavering, and a network that sustained me during critical moments. The change was immense. I went from uncertainty to confidence, from shyness to leadership, and from fear to empowerment. In this space, I learned to recognize myself as a capable, strong woman full of possibilities. One of the most impactful workshops I attended was the Community Project workshop, where Rinconcito del Sol was born. This initiative aims to empower women in rural communities through the use of natural resources and local knowledge. Thanks to that workshop, I was able to turn a deep feeling into a concrete proposal. But that wasn’t the only transformative moment for me. At the Gibson Soto Foundation, I also received English classes, academic advising, and participated in workshops where I grew personally, professionally, and emotionally. I learned how to create a strong resume, prepare for interviews, care for my emotional health, communicate assertively, eat better, and listen with empathy. I learned to recognize my emotions, manage my time, and set achievable goals. Gradually, I gained confidence in myself and understood that professional and personal development go hand in hand. I cannot express enough gratitude to Tom and Paty, the founders of this dream that has changed so many lives. They believed in me when I was just beginning to believe in myself. They have been essential to my journey, and I know my family also thanks them for every step I’ve been able to take because of their trust and the enormous heart with which they said “yes.” I have completed my university studies, which would not have been possible without the constant support of donors. To those who have contributed, I want to say: thank you. You have been part of my story. Thank you for believing in me without knowing me, for investing in my growth, and for enabling me to reach this point. Because of you, I am now a more prepared, aware, and free woman. You have given me much more than a scholarship; you have provided me with tools for life, the opportunity to believe in myself, and the confidence to know that women who leave our communities in search of new opportunities have a world of possibilities ahead of them. I commit to continuing to embody the values I learned here: honesty, trust, respect, responsibility, excellence, and dignity. I vow to continue sowing seeds in my community, raising my voice for those who still lack opportunities, building bridges, and inspiring other girls who are where I once was—doubting, but with a heart full of fire. Evelyn, ages 5, 10, and 15, is completely happy and grateful for Evelyn, 21, who never gave up on her dreams, who, even in fear, persisted, and who learned that the saying “good deeds are rewarded” holds true. Even though a chapter is closing, she carries with her the righteous people who have always supported her and those she has met along the way. The Gibson Soto Foundation didn’t just change my life; it helped me discover who I am. Today, with more certainty than ever, I know I can achieve whatever I set my mind to. Because now I know it can be done. And I know it because I’m living it. |
| Thank you for your ongoing support of the mission of the Gibson Soto Foundation. |
