Carlos' Journey in Sustainable Agriculture and Entrepreneurship
At 23 years old, Carlos is more than just a technician in sustainable tourism. He is an entrepreneur, a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture, and a proud participant in the Colibrí Program. Carlos's journey is a testament to how dedication and a love for learning can transform lives and communities.
A Passion for Learning and Teaching
Carlos describes himself as a highly motivated young man who dreams big and thrives on learning from others. He finds joy in supporting people to discover and enhance their talents, fostering a sense of community and shared growth.
His introduction to the Colibrí Program began at the RENACER Coffee School, where he discovered the profound impact of Water-Smart Agriculture (WSA) on improving farmers' quality of life and protecting the environment.
During his time at RENACER, Carlos learned crucial skills in farm management, soil restoration, and water conservation. “I fell in love with agriculture and the principles of caring for the environment through Water-Smart Agriculture,” he reflects.
Deepening Knowledge Through Hands-On Experience
Carlos's educational journey continued at the Agricultural Summer School, where he expanded his understanding of sustainable farming practices. One key lesson he absorbed is the importance of always keeping the soil covered, which helps preserve moisture and nutrients, and protects against erosion.
Carlos also participated in leadership courses, equipping himself with the skills to be an effective leader in his community, at the university, and in any group he joins. "It’s really cool to see how young people have different ways of thinking, but we’re all on the same path: wanting a better country and a better environment," he shares.
From Student to Entrepreneur
With a growing passion for agriculture and sustainability, Carlos ventured into entrepreneurship. He started his own nursery, cultivating ornamental, fruit, and forest plants, and producing organic fertilizers. His interest in plants was sparked during his time working in a nursery, where he spent hours reading about horticulture.
"As the days went by, I fell in love with my work and decided to start my own project," Carlos explains. He acknowledges that entrepreneurship comes with its challenges, but his dreams are far greater than any obstacles he may face.
In the short term, Carlos aims to generate economic opportunities for other young people through his nursery and to teach them about entrepreneurship. His long-term vision is to establish a field school, providing more youth with the educational opportunities that he benefitted from.
The Joy of Learning by Doing
What Carlos appreciates most about the Colibrí Program is the hands-on learning approach. “The best part is learning by doing, being there, working with my own hands, getting dirty, and learning directly from the field,” he says with enthusiasm.
Carlos’s journey is an inspiring example of how young leaders can leverage education and passion to create positive change in their communities and beyond. His dedication to teaching others and his commitment to sustainable agriculture make him a beacon of hope for a brighter, greener future.