You Helped Build More Than STEM Labs

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WE DID IT!!

Three years ago, we set out to build something simple: a STEM lab where children from vulnerable communities could discover the exciting world of robotics, programming, engineering, and technology.

Thanks to the generosity of faithful donors and partners who believed in that vision, we built our first STEM Lab at Cadaniño. Soon afterward, we were able to open a second location, providing even more students with access to opportunities that had previously been out of reach.

At the time, we thought we were building classrooms.

Looking back now, we realize we were doing something much bigger.

We were opening doors.

Today, those labs have become places where students discover talents they never knew they had. They are learning to think critically, solve problems, work as a team, and create solutions using robotics, electronics, artificial intelligence, engineering, 3D printing, and computer programming.

Our goal has never been simply to teach technology. At Cadaniño, we believe STEM is a powerful tool for developing young people who will use their God-given gifts to serve others, solve problems, and become leaders in their communities.

This year marked an exciting milestone in that journey.

Several of our students and teachers participated in the Balam Robotics Bootcamp hosted by Universidad Galileo, where they learned alongside other young innovators from across Guatemala. Experiences like these help our students realize that they belong in the world of science and technology while challenging them to dream bigger and pursue opportunities they may never have imagined possible.

The momentum continued with the Guatemala Science and Technology Fair 2026, hosted by Cadaniño in partnership with the Municipality of San José Pinula, SENACYT, Universidad Galileo, INTECAP, and Universidad Rural de Guatemala.

More than forty student exhibitors presented projects in robotics, programming, artificial intelligence, electronics, engineering, and 3D printing, demonstrating creativity, technical skill, and an impressive level of professionalism. Volunteer judges from universities, government, and industry generously invested their time to encourage and evaluate each project, making the event a tremendous success. Receiving recognition from the Mayor's Office was a special honor and a meaningful affirmation of the work our students have accomplished.

Yet, as exciting as the competition and awards were, they were not the greatest victory.

The greatest victory was watching students who once had little or no exposure to technology confidently explain complex engineering concepts, present innovative solutions, and inspire visitors with what they had created.

Even more encouraging, many of these same students are now launching Science and Technology Clubs of their own, mentoring younger students and passing along the knowledge and skills they have gained. What began as a single STEM lab has become a movement of young leaders investing in the next generation.

The opportunities continue to grow.

Recently, a group of Cadaniño students was invited to attend a national technology event at Guatemala's National Palace alongside the First Lady, recognizing the country's next generation of innovators. Moments like these remind our students that their ideas matter and that they have a place in shaping Guatemala's future.

At the same time, we are seeing the long-term impact of these investments. Today, seven former Cadaniño students are enrolled in universities, pursuing careers that once seemed beyond their reach. Many more are preparing to follow in their footsteps, equipped with the confidence, skills, and determination to pursue higher education and meaningful careers.

Through this journey, we've learned an important lesson.

The greatest technology we can ever develop isn't a robot or a computer program.

It's a young person who discovers they can change the world.

And the greatest impact isn't simply teaching STEM.

It's empowering those young people to teach, mentor, and inspire the next generation.

To every donor, partner, volunteer, judge, educator, and organization that has walked alongside us—thank you.

• You didn't just help build two STEM labs.

• You helped open doors.

• Doors to confidence.

• Doors to leadership.

• Doors to higher education.

• Doors to careers.

• Doors to opportunities that will impact generations to come.

Together, we are raising a generation of innovators who are transforming Guatemala—one student, one opportunity, and one life at a time.