Eight years ago, in 2016, at the age of 10, the doors of our organization opened for a timid child who had a small group of friends. Motivated by his best friend Jimmy, who often talked about his experiences and all that he was learning, Ezequies felt the urge to join us, and a plan was set into motion.
“Please ask your mom to talk to mine!” A conversation between two mothers became the key to changing a future. His great potential and his parents' commitment allowed him to become one of our outstanding members.
Reflecting on his time in the program, his mother says, “I’m proud of him, as any parent would be. Thanks to InspireDR, he is a well-rounded young man with core values and respect, who has learned how to be responsible. Being there has represented immense progress for him.”
I CAN BE MORE
He remembers his first impression: “So many boys!” Feeling welcomed and happy, he never thought about how much his inner circle would grow or that his introversion could disappear. He just needed to be surrounded by the right people.
It took two years to learn how to swim, but now all the swimming styles and strokes have been mastered, which shows the high level of our swimming program. The first time snorkeling with us is still a vivid memory: “I was so scared, I could not let go of Yann the whole trip!”
Yann is our Director, someone who, with his high energy, is an inspiring leader for our members. “I look up to him. He is always cheering us up, and he has become a motivation for me. We have a special connection.”
“IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE TO BE AT INSPIRE. I WOULDN’T HAVE DEVELOPED THE SAME WAY.” - Ezequies
Since joining us, he has learned English and is now fully bilingual. Additionally, he has been trained as a lifeguard and public speaker, completing most of our core programs. These experiences have equipped him with skills to become a caring leader for his younger fellows.
2019 YEAR OF SURPRISES
The first time he spoke publicly was in 2019 at our La Fiesta 4, overcoming another fear! Other activities where he served as Master of Ceremony include La Fiesta 7 and our Christmas parties in 2020 and 2021.
Video of La Fiesta 4: InspireDR | La Fiesta 4 (Fundraiser) (youtube.com)
The same year, one of our good-hearted donors, gifted two scholarships to their unique international high school, which focuses on project development. Ezequies was selected from a group of five members. The best part, he remembers, was finding out about being selected. The school invited him and the others on a thrilling field trip to Salcedo, where they had a blast. After returning home, still buzzing with excitement, the school called him and his parents, asking them to come to the school to share the exciting news. He was incredibly surprised!
Sean, Director of Isla Academy, shared this about Ezequies: “When I first approached InspireDR in 2019, to offer scholarships, I asked, ‘Who are the kids that show up early, stay late, and participate in everything?’ Ezequies was nominated, and he immediately stood out. On a class trip, when a student broke their shoes, he offered his own without hesitation, showcasing his remarkable character.
Over the next five years, he not only survived the challenges of the pandemic but thrived, becoming a leader admired by classmates, staff, and younger students alike. Intelligent, creative, and always eager to learn, he became an outstanding public speaker and even helped another student secure a scholarship, ensuring a smooth transition. Destined for great things, he will undoubtedly inspire others in the community to achieve their best.”
Now, graduated from high-school, he is participating in InspireDR's Entrepreneurship
course and working with InspireDR as a project assistant, developing skills in project management, marketing and more. He assist with visiting student groups, and proudly represents us at networking events, focusing on helping grow our donor base. He is truly living proof that what we do matters in the community.
Meanwhile, Gerson, the student he helped, was recently awarded a scholarship to
Isla Academy. This is an incredible opportunity for him to secure a brighter future!
Now, Gerson needs your help with daily transportation costs to seize this chance.
Amazing Ezequies!! 🤗