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 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. These wagons are now home to "Ecoclub Buratovich" and offer access to a variety of resources, including the Internet, photography, educational activities, volunteer opportunities and environmental discussion. "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.

Photo: Benjamin Quinto