Feliciana Belasc Brito: The Solar Mama Illuminating Guatemala through Barefoot College International

Illuminating Dreams: Feliciana’s Journey as a Solar Master Trainer in Guatemala

In the heart of Guatemala, where the lush landscapes meet the resilience of indigenous cultures, one woman’s journey stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment. Meet Feliciana, a vibrant 31-year-old from a remote village who has transformed her life and the lives of others with her newfound skills in solar engineering.

An Unfinished Education

Feliciana’s early life was marred by limitations — her education was cut short when she could only reach the sixth grade. Dreams of becoming a teacher faded under the weight of economic constraints and the lack of opportunities in her rural community. The desire to educate and inspire others was crushed beneath the reality that jobs were scarce, and the means to further her studies were non-existent. For many women in her village, including Feliciana, circumstances dictated paths that often led to despair rather than empowerment.

A Golden Opportunity with Barefoot College International

In 2020, Feliciana encountered a transformative opportunity with Barefoot College International, an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development through education and renewable energy. She traveled to their training center, ready to embrace the art and science of solar engineering. This experience was not only about acquiring technical skills but also about reclaiming her dreams of making a difference in her community.

At Barefoot College, Feliciana honed her expertise and returned to her village fully equipped to ignite change. With the inauguration of the new Guatemalan training center, she stepped into the role of a Solar Master Trainer. Now, she stands at the forefront of a revolution that blends renewable energy with the empowerment of women, turning what once seemed insurmountable into a source of strength and inspiration.

Light in the Darkness

Feliciana’s village, like many others, faces significant challenges: potholed roads, a frequently washed-away bridge, and inconsistent access to electricity. Many families rely on candles for illumination, leading to countless struggles, including Feliciana’s own experiences of reading her homework under the weak flicker of candlelight — a memory stark enough that she even recalls burning her assignments.

“Life’s so much more beautiful with light,” Feliciana reflects, embodying the essence of her mission. Her work transcends technical skill; it encapsulates a vision for her community where darkness is replaced with light — both literally and metaphorically. With her undying spirit, Feliciana is not just a facilitator of knowledge; she’s on the brink of independently teaching solar engineering, paving new pathways for growth in her community.

Building a Network of Empowered Women

Feliciana is not alone in this transformative journey. She is joined by Juana, another inspiring Solar Master Trainer who has bravely stepped into the realm of solar engineering. Together, they lead training sessions for women eager to learn and contribute to the electrification of their communities. Their collaboration symbolizes a powerful movement, where women not only gain technical skills but also acquire the confidence to challenge societal norms and become catalysts for change.

The training programs have become a source of empowerment, nurturing a new generation of female leaders who are not only gaining skills but also realizing their potential to uplift their families and communities. They are equipped to drive the solar revolution, dispelling the shadows cast by lack of education and opportunity.

Conclusion: A Vision for the Future

Feliciana’s journey is a compelling testament to the transformative power of education and opportunity. From an aspiring teacher with dreams dimmed by circumstances, she has risen to the role of a Solar Master Trainer, illuminating her community with knowledge and hope. As she continues to share her expertise and train other women, Feliciana is not just spreading light; she is fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience that resonates far beyond her village.

Her story is a reminder that when given the opportunity to learn and grow, individuals can become veritable forces for change — brightening the lives of many, one solar panel at a time. As Feliciana and Juana forge ahead in their mission, they embody the spirit of empowerment and serve as role models to countless others, shining brightly in their pursuit of a more sustainable and equal world.