Daniela Martinez

“I can help my mom, my younger brother, but most of all, I now can make sure my little girl, Ashley, will have a good education.”

— Daniella

Daniella at work in the Mi Esperanza child center.

Daniela joined our jewelry artisan team in 2018. She immediately demonstrated her skill and hard work, becoming a valuable part of the team.

In 2023, Daniela applied for and was offered the position of assistant teacher at the Mi Esperanza Child Learning Center. Daniela is a cheerful influence on the children enrolled in the child center. She always has a smile and offers encouraging words to her students and coworkers. Daniela loves her job at Mi Esperanza. 

Daniela completed the Mi Esperanza ESL course and aspires to continue her formal education. She has completed an Entrepreneurial Investment course. Her dream is to attend university and earn a degree in marketing. Working at Mi Esperanza has made that dream come closer to reality. 

Daniela at a Glance 

• Married

• Children: 1

• Community: Altos de la Olla

• Mi Esperanza Course: Child Learning Center

Daniela shares, “Since I have this job, I am more independent, more social, and creative. It amazes me to see that I now can take a piece of raw brass and transform it into something beautiful,” said Daniela. “I can help my mom and my younger brother, but most of all, I can now make sure my little girl, Ashley, will have a good education.”

Sulema Benitez

“Mi Esperanza has been a great change in my life. I have never been paid fairly in any of my former jobs. At Mi Esperanza, they listen to my ideas, and I am respected. It makes me want to grow old working at Mi Esperanza.”

Sulema at work in the Mi Esperanza Jewelry Studio

Sulema Benitez is a special person for Mi Esperanza. She is married and the mother of three boys, Andrich, Axel, and Kenneth.

Since Sulema started at Mi Esperanza, she has become one of our most gifted artisans. Sulema's training quickly advanced from simple beading to intricate metalwork. Our jewelry designer was amazed by her development. Due to her talent and abilities, Sulema was promoted to Jewelry Studio Supervisor at Mi Esperanza a year and a half later.

Sulema at a Glance 

• Common-law marriage

• Children: 3

• Community: Dora de Asfura

• Mi Esperanza Course: Jewelry program

In 2021, one of her greatest dreams came true. Sulema's oldest son, Andrich, graduated from a private bilingual school. An education that was never possible for Sulema. He is currently (7/2025) enrolled in college and working. He is now able to help his family financially, specifically by supporting the education of his two younger brothers. Her efforts and sacrifices are changing her children's futures, and she takes pride in them.

"I have met wonderful people through Mi Esperanza," she said—people who have supported me. I encourage Mi Esperanza's friends to keep helping women like me. Your support not only touches us but also the lives of our children and others we care for."

Aracely Velazquez

“ My girls will have all the opportunities I never had. Their futures are changed! I will fulfill many of my dreams through them. I thank Mi Esperanza and everyone that helps us. You are changing lives.”

— Aracely

Aracely with her daughters Ximena and Ashley

Aracely is married and the mother of two girls. Aracely heard about Mi Esperanza from an announcement at her daughter's school. The timing was perfect to begin her education. While her daughter was at school, Aracely came to class and graduated from the computer course in 2013. 

Every day, after computer classes, she would stay and wait for her daughter to finish school. She volunteered her time and helped our sewing instructor with small tasks around the center. Through her volunteering, Aracely proved herself a valuable asset to Mi Esperanza. Soon after, Aracely was given a part-time job helping to pack t-shirts, organize, clean, and do other minor duties. A year and a half later, she accepted a full-time job. 

Aracely at a glance

• Married

• Children: 2

• Community: PInares de Oriente

• Mi Esperanza: Course: Computer

In 2018, Aracely was promoted to office manager. She's now in charge of enrolling students, managing attendance, providing teacher support, and handling other office duties. She also helps in the on-site store. Aracely is a valued member of the Mi Esperanza staff.

She always wanted to give her daughters the best education possible. Having a job at Mi Esperanza helped her achieve this goal. In 2020, Ximena gave her one of the greatest satisfactions a mother can receive. Her daughter graduated with honors from a very prestigious school. And she has already started university!

About this event, Aracely said, "My girls will have all the opportunities I never had. Their futures have changed! I will fulfill many of my dreams through them. I thank Mi Esperanza and everyone who helps us. You are changing lives."

In 2025, Aracely's daughter, Ximena, will graduate from university with a degree in graphic design. Ximena is also the instructor for Mi Esperanza's Computer Technology course and a student in the Mi Esperanza Cosmetology program. Ximena's future is full of possibilities!

Ana Gonzales

“Ana is grateful for her work and the time Mi Esperanza invested in her.  She looks forward to continuing to learn and becoming better at her job”

Ana lives in Mololoa, a community on the outskirts of Tegucigalpa. She lives and cares for her elderly mother and four children. In 2014, Ana signed up for the Mi Esperanza sewing course, which was offered at the community center in her village. Ana was a great student and made a lasting impression on our instructor.  

Ana at a glance

• Married

• Children: 4

• Community: Mololoa

• Mi Esperanza Course: Satellite Sewing 

Before learning to sew, Ana did not possess any marketable skills and, therefore, did not have a job. She did, however, volunteer with World Vision in her community. As much as she enjoyed giving her time to a worthy cause that helped her village, she dreamed of being able to contribute financially to her family's well-being and her children's education and to have the resources to better care for her disabled daughter. 

With that ambition in her heart, Ana completed the Mi Esperanza sewing course, hoping it would open doors to find work. Shortly after her graduation, the Mi Esperanza production house needed some temporary workers for a large production order. Because she excelled in her classwork, the Mi Esperanza sewing teacher called her to work on the job. She began as a temporary employee but quickly advanced to a full-time position due to her dedication and kind spirit. With a donation from Mi Esperanza of a sewing machine, Ana also works from home.

Now, Ana has reached the goals she set for herself. All of her earnings go toward the care of her disabled daughter and the education of her other three children.

2025- Today, Ana's daughter, Cynthia, graduated from the Mi Esperanza cosmetology program in 2024. She was offered a full-time job at the salon where she interned. She is excelling and can now help Ana financially. Ana works part-time in the Mi Esperanza sewing maquila. She and Cynthia share the care responsibilities for Ana's disabled daughter.

Their family is now more financially stable, and Ana's younger children attend school.

Dilcia Rodriguez

DILCIA AT A GLANCE

• Married

• Children: 4

• Community: Colonia Molaloa

• Mi Esperanza Course: Micro-loan program, Sewing Training course, Dye Artisan

Dilcia met Mi Esperanza co-founder Lori and her husband, Mark, in the summer of 2005 when her community of Molaloa was experiencing flash flooding and her land was being washed away by the water. Dilcia and her children had to leave their home because it was in danger of collapsing.  She was moved to a shelter that TORCH set up in a community church.  Dilcia, at the time, had three sons: Jefferson, 4, and her twin boys, who were three months old.  Through the work of TORCH missions and the efforts of Lori and Mark, Dilcia's house was saved, and she was able to return home.  Lori and Dilcia have remained friends and in contact ever since.  In March 2012, Dilcia applied to Mi Esperanza's Micro-loan program to start a fruit stand business in her barrio. She was excited to start a business that would allow her to be close to home, care for her disabled son, and still earn a living.  Shortly after she began her business, the gang in her community began demanding a "war tax" to keep her business open. Not making enough to pay the tax and still earn a profit, she was forced to close her business.  

In 2014, Mi Esperanza held a satellite sewing training course in her community, and Dilcia signed up.  She was very dedicated to her studies and finished at the top of her class.  She purchased a manual sewing machine and started sewing clothes in her community as a means of supporting her family's income.

“Now I can help my family, and I continue to HOPE that there are more people willing to help others in need.  I am overwhelmed with the organization for helping my family and my children.”

— Quote Source

In January 2015, Mi Esperanza began implementing a new line of hand-dyed products that required the services of a dye artisan.  Dilcia was chosen to work with EA Lepine, a board member and designer/owner of Arrowroot Clothing, to learn the art of fabric dyeing. Dilcia was beyond excited for the opportunity to learn a new skill and a work opportunity. Dilcia is now our dye artisan and is doing a fantastic job.  She is working on Mi Esperanza products and products for our partners in hope.  

In 2025, Dilcia has realized her dream of owning a roadside business in her community, where she sells a variety of fresh produce, snacks, and drinks. She is happy to be close to home while earning an income to support her family.

Nery Elizabeth Sierra Gonzalez

Nery lives in the community of Jiniguare, a long trek into the mountains beyond Santa Ana, Honduras.  Nery heard of Mi Esperanza's free sewing training course offered in Santa Ana from a friend.  She walked for one hour to find the course, and when she did, she signed up for the course.  Nery knew this was her only opportunity to learn a skill, and for seven months, she walked one hour to class and one hour home four days a week to take advantage of this opportunity.

Nery at a glance

• Children: None

• Community: Jiniguare

• Mi Esperanza Course: Sewing Course

with her graduating class

with her mother when her sewing machine was delivered to her home

Nery 2014.  Receiving her sewing machine she was awarded for excellence in class.

“No one in this community has a sewing machine, and I will be happy to design and make skirts, dresses, school uniforms to sell in the community!”

Nery was recognized as the top student in her class for her commitment, dedication, and hard work at graduation.  She was awarded a sewing machine for use in her home as a token of honor.  Nery is thrilled with her education and the machine, as it will provide a new source of income for her family. 

Mercedes Matute

Mercedes came to us by recommendation of a friend from church.  Mercedes was going through a very hard time in life and struggling with depression.  She was not working and living in despair. Her friend convinced her to call and sign up for the course, and she began class in August 2013.  Mercedes was dedicated to her commitment to receiving one of the class spaces. As she learned, she discovered that her outlook on life began to shift; she had a newfound sense of hope and enjoyed her time in class and with the people around her at Mi Esperanza.  When she started, she did not know how to turn a computer on; now she knows how to use a computer and all the programs presented in the course.  Mercedes was known in class for her punctuality to class and responsibility in her work.

Mercedes at a glance

• Children: 2

• Community: San Cristobal

• Mi Esperanza Course: computer

Mercedes and Heydie the computer instructor

in class 2013

“When she started she did not know how to turn a computer on, now she knows how to use a computer and all the programs presented in the course.”

One month after she graduated, she had an opportunity to work as a sales promoter for Grupo Cooperativo Excelsior International.  She applied for and received the job.  She creates reports in Word and Excel documents, skills she learned during her course at Mi Esperanza.  We are very happy for Mercedes and all it offered her in life, because no one should live without hope.

Martha Valdez

Martha graduated from the Mi Esperanza Cosmetology School in August 2012.  Since graduating, Martha has been employed by Hefziba Beauty Salon, where she performed her internship, a requirement for graduation.  Martha is very happy with her job and enjoys the environment in which she works.  She continues to learn and gain confidence in the beauty industry.  Martha's boss is also very pleased with her work and work ethic.  She is very proud of her perseverance and commitment to her work.  Martha is thankful to Mi Esperanza for the education and skills she now has to help support her family.

graduation day August 2012 with instructor Paola and co-founder Lori Connell

Martha at work in October 2013

with classmate at the Mi Esperanza training center

Martha at a glance

• Children: 2

• Mi Esperanza Course: Beauty

Gabriela Sevilla

Gabriela Sevilla graduated from our Beauty School in August 2012.  When she graduated, she immediately started working out of her rented home to offer services in her community.  Gabriela and her husband own a house, but it was in such disrepair that they could not live in it or use it for her business.  Because they had to rent another home, they never had money to improve the house they owned as they had planned.

graduation day 2012 with instructor Paola and co-founder Lori Connell

signing her first micro-loan papers 2013

the day she payed her final payment on her first loan with founders janet Hines and Lori Connell 2014

her salon in her rented home 2012

her graduation diploma proudly displayed in her salon

Gabriela speaking to a graduating class at Mi Esperanza 2013

August '14  during a sight visit made by co-founder Lori Connell to see the progress on the salon renovations and sharing Gabriela's story with vistitors

Gabriela proudly sharing her story and explaining her renovations.  2014

Gabriela at a glance

• Married

• Children: 2

• Community: Aldea El Lolo, Entrada Principal, Sector 3

• Mi Esperanza Course: Beauty and Micro-loan Program

In October 2013, Gabriela applied to the Mi Esperanza microfinance program to support her business, purchase additional equipment and supplies, and renovate the space she owned for her salon.  Gabriela repaid that loan in full and on time with no late payments. In June 2014, she received approval on a 2nd loan, and with this loan, she continues to work on her salon.

When speaking to Gabriela, she first thanks God for His love for her and the provision He provides in her life. She is also highly grateful to Mi Esperanza's education and micro-loan programs, as well as the opportunities they offered her to change her family's future. Gabriela shared with us that she would pray, "God, how am I going to change our life?", and she sees His answer came through the opportunities from Mi Esperanza.

“God, how am I going to change our life”

Since graduating, Gabriela has returned to Mi Esperanza as a motivational speaker and continues to participate in service projects with current students. She loves giving back to the program that has given her so much. We are incredibly proud of her commitment and hard work, and we love watching her make the most of the opportunities she has been given.   It is a blessing to make this journey alongside her. 

Luz Amparo Flores

In Amparo's words

In February 2005, I was listening to the radio when a preacher announced that Mi Esperanza had begun a sewing course in Aldea las Tapias.  A couple of women from my neighborhood went to sign up because we knew this would be something good for us. After a year, I learned to sew, and the teacher, Cecilia, saw my work, and she liked it.

“Working for Mi Esperanza changed my life completely, before taking the sewing course I did not have any skills whatsoever, since then I have been working for 8 years and the income helps me to support my family and give my kids a good education. ”

In 2006, I started making bags for Mi Esperanza. We used to work in Colonia Elvel at Lori's house; it was a small place, but we all loved working together.  Gypsy and Lola bags were the first bags I made, and now I am capable of making any bag Mi Esperanza requests.  Working for Mi Esperanza completely changed my life. Before taking the sewing course, I had no skills whatsoever. Since then, I have worked for twenty years, and the income has enabled me to support my family and provide my children with a good education.

Amparo at a glance

• Children: 4

• Community: Nueva Aldea, Mateo

• Mi Esperanza Course: Sewing and the Mi Esperanza maquila

I am delighted to learn that, in 2015, we will have more work to do due to Mi Esperanza's partnership with other nonprofit organizations and designers from the US.

Mi Esperanza is not just an organization but a great blessing to many Honduran women who have benefited from the computer, cosmetology, and sewing courses, as well as the micro-loan program.

I thank God for Mi Esperanza.

2025- Amparo is a treasured part of Mi Esperanza. She is our longest-employed artisan, having worked on making Mi Esperanza products for 19 years.

Sara Zepeda

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 following 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 to Thursday, but thank God, we have had so many new projects that I now work Monday through Friday.

Sara at a glance

• Children: 3

• Community: Nueva Oriental

• Mi Esperanza Course: Sewing and the Mi Esperanza maquila

I have had many positive experiences working with Liz Alig, creating garments from 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 reassuring to know that the products I create are sold in the United States, which means we are growing rapidly as an organization, and my efforts are not in vain. That is why I strive to do better every day.   I have also had the opportunity to participate in Esperanza's micro-loan program. 
In Honduras, there are few job opportunities available for women, which is why I am grateful to God for Mi Esperanza, allowing me to be part of this wonderful project. I appreciate the fact that there is no discrimination based on my age, but pure affection and motivation from the staff toward me. 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 received numerous benefits and gifts from Mi Esperanza. I have received a sewing machine that I use to work from home, as well as 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.

2025: Sara has retired and is enjoying a relaxed schedule and spending time with her family.

“I am thankful to God for being part of Mi Esperanza project and I ask God everyday to give me the wisdom to be better. May God bless this organization to continue helping women help themselves.”

Romelia Martinez

In Romelia's words.

I heard of Mi Esperanza in 2006 when our preacher told us about the courses Mi Esperanza was offering to poor women. I took the reed weaving and piñata making course. After graduating, I applied for a seamstress job at Mi Esperanza, and they kindly gave me a job in the maquila. I was doing very well, making enough money to support my family, but my husband had an accident that left him physically incapacitated. I had to quit my job to take care of my husband. During this difficult moment of my life, Mi Esperanza always helped me emotionally, and they gave me a wheelchair and a handicapped bed for my husband to help me care for him better.  After a year of taking care of my husband, I returned to work at the Mi Esperanza maquila. I don’t know what it would be like without Mi Esperanza helping me and providing me with a job.   Because of this job, I can support my family and give my kids the education they need.

Romelia at a glance

• Children: 5

• Community: Colonia Monterrey

• Mi Esperanza Course: Weaving course, Piñata course and Sewing Maquila

I have been very busy working on several projects, I love making school uniforms for kids, and bags for the ladies that come visit us every summer, I am so happy to know that they love the product that we make in the maquila. One of my favorite bags is the mosquito bag.  I love that these "school" bags helped the kids living in isolated parts of Honduras.

“Because of this job I am able to support my family and give my kids the education they need.”

I will always be grateful to God and Mi Esperanza. I wish there were more organizations like Mi Esperanza in Honduras!

2025- Romilia has since retired and is enjoying spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Reina Viera

Reina working with design partner, Maria Jose Padget

Reina first learned of Mi Esperanza from her friend Maria Salazar, a sewing student. She heard of Mi Esperanza's free computer course for women living in poverty. She immediately signed up, knowing this course would benefit her life, but she did not imagine how joining the Mi Esperanza program would change not only her own life but also that of her family. After graduating from the computer course in 2006, she applied for a job at the Mi Esperanza Maquila.

Guadalupe Betancourt was in charge of the maquila, and she was aware of Reina's sewing skills, recommending that Reina be hired. Reina was part of our artisan team until she was promoted to sewing instructor and maquila manager in 2016. She is grateful for her work because it has enabled her to provide education for her daughters. One of her goals was to see her daughter, Heydie, receive a diploma from a private university. Heydie has completed university and holds two degrees. Her younger daughter, Stephanie, is now attending university.

Reyna at a glance

• Children: 4

• Community: Los Pinos

• Mi Esperanza Course: Computer, Sewing, Maquila

Thanks to Reina's salary from her work at Mi Esperanza, she can also help her mom with medical bills.

Reina is grateful to God and to the Mi Esperanza Project for the opportunities it has provided for her family. And the hope of a brighter future for her children.

2025 - Riena's youngest daughter is completing her internship and will soon graduate from university with a degree in psychology. Because of the education Reina has been able to provide for her daughters, Heydie (her oldest daughter) is working in a stable job and can send her son to a bilingual school that will provide him with opportunities. The cycle of extreme poverty is broken, and brighter futures are a reality for Reina and her family. Reina has been with Mi Esperanza for 20 years.

Glenda Baca

Glenda at a glance

• Children: 3

• Community: La Picuda, Santa Ana

• Mi Esperanza Course: Santa Ana sewing class 2011 & 2012

During the two years Glenda attended class, she was eager to learn how to sew.   Sometimes it was hard for her to attend class because she had to prepare her children for school and have lunch ready for her husband, but with effort and perseverance, she finally obtained a diploma.  At graduation, Glenda received a sewing machine from Mi Esperanza and immediately told her friends that she was opening a sewing business.  Currently, she sews school uniforms, skirts, and other items as needed by her clients.  With her new skill, she can provide extra income to help with household expenses and buy school supplies for her children. 

Miriam Nunez

Miriam at a glance

• Children: 1

• Community: Los Pinos

• Mi Esperanza Course: Belleza/Beauty & Personal Skills 2010/2011

Miriam came to Mi Esperanza, like many women, looking for an opportunity to improve her life.   Miriam comes from an impoverished community on the outskirts of Tegucigalpa, and daily survival has always been a struggle. Her husband works hard, but it still wasn't enough to meet their basic needs and the costs of sending their daughter, Crystal, to kindergarten.  Taking the Mi Esperanza beauty course and personal skills course opened doors for Miriam that she had never had before.  In December 2011, Miriam was hired at Salon New Style to help with the busy holiday season.  When the holiday season was over, the owner retained Miriam due to her strong work ethic, personality, and willingness to learn.  Miriam is pleased with her work and has an excellent working relationship with the owner.  Miriam is happy to be able to contribute to her family's income. She was very proud to say that her daughter had begun kindergarten and was doing well.

Yuri Vargas

Yuri came to Mi Esperanza through word of mouth from a friend.  She has always been interested in the beauty industry, but never had the finances to attend a cosmetology program. Yuri finished high school and attempted to start classes at the university level, but could not afford the costs.

Through her education at Mi Esperanza, Yuri is now working at a salon in Tegucigalpa, saving money little by little to begin her university classes in commerce.  Her vision is to combine her Mi Esperanza beauty training and business education to open her salon. She knows this will take time, but she is willing to work at her goal little by little.  

Yuri works 3 days a week, 8-5 at her job.  She is still learning and growing in her skills.  She is currently working with clients on Mani/Pedi as well as blow-drying services. She is 15 minutes from home and is extremely happy in her job.  Yuri has big dreams for her future, and with the right education, we know she will achieve them.

Yuri at a glance

• Children: None

• Community: Sagastume #2

• Mi Esperanza Course: Belleza/Beauty & Personal Skills 2011/2012

Karla Pineda

Karla has always been drawn to beauty, and we discovered during her training at Mi Esperanza that she possesses a natural ability in this area.  Karla graduated in the spring of 2010. After graduation, she worked from her home, offering services in her community, and began building a salon business.  In 2011, her father became very ill, and Karla went out seeking another job to help buy his medicine.  What she found was a job at Kielsa Pharmacy.  Knowing Karla's skill from Mi Esperanza, her sister wanted to help her realize her dream of owning a salon. In December, with the financial help of her sister, Karla opened her salon, Salon de Belleza Andreas, named after her niece. The day we visited the salon was very busy, and the clients thoroughly enjoyed the service they received at Salon de Belleza Andreas.   Karla continues to work for Kielsa to pay off the start-up costs of the salon and then plans on working full-time in her salon.  When Karla opened her salon, she invited another Mi Esperanza friend to work with her on the days she is at her other job.  The salon is doing well and continues to build a clientele.  We are very happy for Karla and her success.

Karla at a glance

• Children: None

• Community: Colonia Carrizal #2

• Mi Esperanza Course: belleza/Beauty & Personal Skills 2009/2010

Karen Trujillo

Karen came to Mi Esperanza in 2009 when she was 22 years old. Karen has one daughter, who is now six years old. Karen came to Mi Esperanza seeking an opportunity that would enable her to support herself and her daughter. With no formal advanced education or skill training, Karen was finding it challenging to earn a consistent living. Always interested in beauty, the Mi Esperanza Beauty School was a perfect fit for Karen. Karen was a dedicated student who worked diligently on her studies. After graduation, Karen went to work at the salon where she had completed her internship and remained there until the salon closed. Immediately following the loss of that job opportunity, she found a job at Acyrilica's Salon and has been working there for the past 1 1/2 years. She is pleased with her career, and her employer is happy with her. Her responsibilities at the salon are manicures, pedicures, shampoo, and massage. Karen continues learning and looks forward to expanding her skills and responsibilities at the salon. Karen is pleased to be working and supporting herself and her daughter.

Karen at a Glance

• Children: 2

• Community: Buenos Aires

• Mi Esperanza Course: Belleza/Beauty School

When we arrived at Millennium Salon, we found Karen working with a salesman to purchase products for her salon. Ten months ago, the salon where Karen worked closed, and she decided to open her own. Millennium has now been open for nine months. Karen is excited to be her boss. She says it is hard work. She works five days a week, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but loves building her own business. Since our last visit, Karen has gotten married and had her second child. Karen simply says, "Mi Esperanza changed my life!!"

“Mi Esperanza changed my life!”

— Karen

Irma Ortega

Irma is happy and excited for the future, and she credits Mi Esperanza for her optimism about life.

Irma at a glance

• Children: 1

• Community: Via Nueva

• Mi Esperanza Course: Belleza/Beauty & Personal Skills

 Irma came to Mi Esperanza in the spring of 2010 with a desire to learn more about the beauty industry. During a recent visit, Irma shared with us that she didn't think she was very good at first: "I kept burning my hand on the blow dryer."  However, two things made her realize that her training could have a future beyond personal knowledge... 1. After beginning school, her family and friends started asking her to do their hair and nails. "I began noticing that with practice, I was getting better." And... 2. Her internship at Afro Style. She began working with clients and realized her training could be a new career.  After graduation, she was hired at Afro Style full-time and worked there until December.  Irma was well-liked by her employer and clients.  During that time, Irma decided she wanted to go out on her own so she could be a more available mother to her daughter Stephanie.  In November 2010, she began searching for a location near her home to open her salon, and on December 1, she opened Bellas Beauty Salon.  Bella (pronounced bay-ya) means "beautiful" and represents all the beautiful women in her life.

“There are many single mothers out there that need help”

Opened almost two months ago, Irma is doing well.  Irma feels that Mi Esperanza not only gave her a skill but also the confidence it took to open her own business.  She also shared, "The confidence Mi Esperanza gave me went far beyond the classroom. It gave me the confidence to leave an abusive relationship, and now my daughter and I are happier and healthier."  Irma goes to a technical high school at night, where she is working on her diploma with a business development track.  She is using this education to improve her business.

She is very grateful to Mi Esperanza for the vision to educate women. "There are many single mothers out there who need help."  Irma hopes to continue her education to the university level, and she hopes to send Stephanie to a private, bilingual school when she is five.  In the meantime, she enjoys bringing her to work on occasion and being financially independent for the first time.

Ely "Oneyda" Oliva Betancourt

In 2009, Onyeda graduated from Mi Esperanza, and her life has undergone a complete transformation since then.  Onyeda has been working at the same salon since her graduation.  After graduation, she was hired at Ivonne’s Salon on Boulevard—La Hacienda in the capital city of Tegucigalpa.  Yvonne's is one of the leading salons in Tegucigalpa.  Onyeda performs all levels of service within the salon and has built a successful clientele.  When Onyeda graduated, she had no children, but now has a daughter who just entered school and is pregnant with her 2nd child.  Oyneda says that her ability to work has lifted a financial burden on her family.  Being able to help her husband financially brings her happiness and alleviates a significant amount of stress for them all. Onyeda thanks Mi Esperanza for allowing her to gain an education that she uses daily.

Onyeda on graduation day.  Pictured with Leo and Gena.

In front of Yvonnes 11-2010

with one of her clients at Yvonne's Salon 11-2010

11-2010

Oneyda at a glance

• Children: 1

• Community: Nueva Oriental

• Mi Esperanza Course: Beauty and Personal Skills