Build Bright Colombian Futures through STEM

Happy New Year from Medellín! 

This city holds a special place in our story: it’s where Makaia first began its work empowering communities through technology and education. The city, renowned for its capacity for reinvention, still bears the scars of its history with drug trafficking and the social struggles that came with it. Many of its youth, particularly those from underprivileged neighborhoods, are drawn to the allure of quick success and easy money. But at the heart of this, our youth are driven, resourceful and hungry to see change in their lives! Through the STEM Talents Incubator, we aim their energy towards building sustainable, stable futures while also providing the psychosocial support needed to help participants stay grounded and focused. 

Samuel, for instance, is a 19-year-old participant from Medellín. In the STEM Incubator, Samuel discovered his love for computational thinking and critical thinking, with a special fondness for Fibonacci sequences. Beyond the technical skills, he learned valuable life lessons, such as teamwork and stress management, which he says have helped him grow not just as a student but as a person.  

Samuel’s determination to learn led him to address his connectivity issues creatively by using a neighbor’s internet. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “The STEM Incubator has impacted my life and my future. I have learned to think before acting and to be more analytical with day-to-day situations. This will allow me to continue my training in tech, find a job, and become a professional because the skills I have learned are in high demand.” 

To date, the STEM Talents Incubator has transformed the lives of hundreds of young people like Samuel. Your support is vital in helping us empower the next generation of resilient and skilled leaders in Medellín and beyond.