Sara Zepeda
Lori Connell
In Sara's words.
I met Lori, Mark, and Janet in 2007 when they announced the Mi Esperanza courses in Nueva Oriental. I heard Mi Esperanza was offering Computer, Cosmetology, and Sewing classes to women of low income. I was interested in the sewing course and decided to take it immediately. My husband died the next year after I graduated; when Mi Esperanza found out about my husband, they called me to offer me a current job available at Mi Esperanza, which I happily accepted. I feel good to be part of their team. I started working from Monday-Thursday, but thank God we have had so many new projects that I work Monday-Friday now.
Sara at a glance
Children: 3
Community: Nueva Oriental
Mi Esperanza Course: Sewing and the Mi Esperanza maquila
I have had many good experiences working with Liz Alig making garments out of recycled t-shirts. I got to meet EA and make her wedding dress, the groom's suit, the bridesmaids’ dresses, and the groomsmen's suits.
It is good to know that the products I make are sold in the states, which means we are growing rapidly as an organization, and my effort is not in vain. That is the reason I try to do better every day. I have also had the opportunity to participate in Mi Esperanza's micro-loan program.
In Honduras, there are not many jobs available for women, and that is why I thank God for Mi Esperanza for allowing me to be part of this wonderful project. I like the fact that there is no discrimination because of my age, but pure affection and motivation toward me from the staff. Through these seven years, I have felt emotional, economic, and moral support. I feel at home every day that I work at Mi Esperanza.
I have had so many benefits and gifts from Mi Esperanza. I have received a sewing machine that I use to work at home sometimes, fabrics, school supplies, and food, When my son had an accident, he could barely walk and Lori gave me a pair of crutches. That was so nice of her. But the most important thing is that they gave me a sewing course to learn how to sew. Because of it, I can work for Mi Esperanza. I have skills now and a job that helps me provide for my family.