Closing 2011 with a wonderful group of young women- Circulo de Amigas

As my close of service approaches there are a few things that make me think twice about leaving. One of them is Círculo de Amigas. It has been an incredible NGO to work with. Their work and focus on young women is outstanding. In a culture strongly influenced by machismo, this single NGO has dedicated their efforts in developing young women and helping them succeed against the odds. Girls are given the opportunity to be smart, to be sassy and most of all empowered. They are told not what they can´t do, but everything they can do. When I first moved to Jinotega, Círculo de Amigas opened their arms and welcomed me in.

Over the past two years these girls have grown into young women in front of my eyes. I remeber the day I came in and Katy and Milena were wearing makeup, bras and heels. When did that happen?

Well, all I can say is these girls are some of the brightest and strongest people I know.

I love them.

Before I left for the holidays we had a little Christmas party. The girls, along with Doña Claudia, organized the entire event. There were skits, dances, a dancing competion and even snacks. Check it out.