My name is Kathy Lopez, and I first met Students International Guatemala when I was just six years old. I still remember the SI staff coming to my home to visit my family, pray with us, and spend time together. They were present during many important moments in our lives.

When I started elementary school and reached second grade, I received news that would change my future forever. A wonderful couple, Gretel and Félix, had decided to sponsor my education. From that moment on, they faithfully supported me with love and encouragement, always checking in on me and cheering me on through every stage of my life.

Growing up wasn’t always easy. I experienced bullying at school, and there were seasons that were especially difficult. But by God’s grace, the love of my family, and the constant support of Students International Guatemala, I found the strength to keep moving forward and continue pursuing my dreams.

With perseverance, I completed elementary school and celebrated my graduation. I then entered middle school, where I faced new challenges and obstacles. Yet through every step, God remained faithful. The encouragement, guidance, and care I received from the SI Guatemala team reminded me that I was never alone and inspired me to keep going.

Later, I had the incredible joy of graduating with a vocational degree in Hospitality and Tourism. It was a season filled with both hardships and blessings, but God continued to provide everything I needed. My family stood beside me, and Students International Guatemala continued to believe in me and invest in my future.

Today, I look back with a heart full of gratitude. Because of the opportunities I was given, I was able to receive an education, graduate, and prepare for a brighter future. I now have the opportunity to continue growing professionally, serve others, and demonstrate that when someone believes in a child and provides opportunities, a life can be transformed.

I am deeply thankful to God, to my sponsors Gretel and Félix, and to the entire Students International Guatemala family for planting seeds of hope in my life. Their support made my education possible, but even more than that, it taught me that dreams can become reality when they are nurtured with love, faith, and people who are willing to walk alongside us.

Thank you for being part of stories like Kathy’s. Your prayers, generosity, and faithful partnership continue to transform lives—one child, one family, and one community at a time. Because of your support, young people like Kathy are discovering hope, pursuing their dreams, and experiencing God’s love in tangible ways.