Emilio, 18, Argentina

Basic need(s):

Education, Shelter

Project:

"Ecoclub Buratovich" and "Un Vagón Hermoso"

When Emilio was 9 years old, he noticed how two abandoned train cars in his Mayor Buratovich community divided the very rich and very poor. His poor community faced many societal problems—school dropouts, crime, teen pregnancy, sexual abuse, environmental problems, apathy among the youth—which made the youth vulnerable and unable to change their economic and social situations. As the leader of the youth club "Ecoclub Buratovich," Emilio decided this was the project he needed to work on with club members. Under his leadership "Ecoclub Buratovich" repaired the two train cars, calling the project "Un Vagón Hermoso" ("beautiful wagon" in Spanish), in order to create a youth center for the community. One of these wagons is now home to "Ecoclub Buratovich" and offers access to a variety of resources and events, including the Internet, photography, outdoor cinema, group meals, educational activities, volunteer opportunities and environmental discussion. The other train car functions as a residence for visiting artists and guests. These two train cars have successfully served as a way to link local youth, free agents and artists in the realization of social projects that value public over private and the collective over the individual. "Ecoclub Buratovich" has helped empower the youth to drive social change – they have gained knowledge and life skills that have greatly improved their relationship with the community. Emilio hopes to expand his project and inspire young people to alter the way they are viewed by society.
To learn more, visit www.unvagonhermoso.net.

Photo: Benjamin Quinto