Unlocking the power of technology for Guatemala’s future generations

Working at Capgemini Switzerland, I’ve had the opportunity of taking a leave from work and leveraging technology to create meaningful impact – not only in client projects but also in the lives of young people in Guatemala.

Driven by a belief that technology should be accessible to everyone, I led a robotics initiative aimed at empowering young minds in some of the most challenging environments in Guatemala.

This experience was a stark contrast to my life as a data and tech consultant in Switzerland. In Guatemala, the reality is shaped by a culture of “fear,” where daily life is overshadowed by gang violence, inadequate healthcare, and entrenched gender inequality. Yet, despite these hardships, Guatemalan people showed me the meaning of true generosity and appreciation for the small joys of life. Through this blog, I want to take you on a journey through this transformative experience, showcasing how a tech project became a vessel for resilience, gratitude, and joy.

Why Guatemala?

My journey to Guatemala was inspired by a deep, personal calling to serve and give back what I had received. Growing up, I was fortunate to receive love, care, and every material comfort from my parents. Over the years, and as my faith deepened, I came to understand that the abundance I had received was not just a privilege but a responsibility. This realization compelled me to give back, to share the gifts I had been given, freely and wholeheartedly.

Who Are We Supporting?

Our “client” in this story is Futuro Vivo, founded over 30 years ago by the Carmelite Sisters of Teaching. Futuro Vivo is dedicated to uplifting some of the poorest communities in Guatemala City (Concepción Las Lomas – zone 16) and Samac in Cobán, Alta Verapaz. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to provide high-quality education that opens doors to better job opportunities and a brighter future, under the belief that “education is the foundation for progress and personal growth.”

Futuro Vivo operates two tuition-free schools, ensuring that education and an adequate diet are accessible to over 500 students, regardless of financial circumstances. Families contribute to the project in different meaningful ways: whether through running the school canteen, taking care of the school maintenance, and gardening. Families also attend several workshops focused on different day-to-day topics, creating a bond among them and fostering the sense of belonging to the local community.

Despite their commitment, the institution faces financial challenges, relying heavily on the generosity of individuals, institutions, and sponsors. As they put it, “We believe in God’s Providence, which manifests through the contributions of generous people.”

Additionally, Futuro Vivo operates Xocolatl, a chocolate workshop founded in 2006 and aimed at empowering women through career development in chocolate production, sales, and marketing. Xocolatl also aims to generate revenue to help sustain Futuro Vivo‘s educational programs.

The Robotics Project: Bridging the Digital Divide and Beyond

The robotics project was designed to give Futuro Vivo’s students access to technology, something that is often out of reach in their everyday lives. For most, it was their first encounter with a digital device other than a computer. The project aimed to prepare them for future educational opportunities, particularly in university, aligning with Futuro Vivo’s mission to deliver high-quality education. The students, aged 11-14, were taught to build and operate the mBot robot, applying concepts they had learned in class, such as electricity and coding. They were also evaluated on soft skills like teamwork, meeting deadlines, and public speaking.

In collaboration with IT teachers, we structured the project into three phases: planning, implementation, and presentation. During the planning phase, students assigned team roles, listed materials, and designed the robot’s movements to simulate a real-world scenario. The implementation phase involved coding and iterative problem-solving, embodying the “trial and error” process common in DevOps. Finally, each team presented their project, reflecting on lessons learned and suggesting future improvements.

In addition to the robotics project, we helped develop a Client Relationship Management (CRM) tool for Xocolatl, Futuro Vivo’s chocolate workshop, which streamlined their operations and improved management efficiency. This tool enabled better tracking of sales, inventory, and customer relationships, significantly boosting the workshop’s productivity and sustainability. Moreover, we supported in school events and activities, and visited students and families facing challenging situations. Therefore, our involvement extended beyond technology, ensuring comprehensive support for both educational and community needs.

Key Challenges

In Guatemala, students face significant obstacles in pursuing education and a brighter future. Access to new technologies is severely limited, with hundreds of students sharing a few computers and tablets, compounded by unstable internet connectivity. These challenges are further exacerbated by issues in their daily lives, including poor nutrition and hygiene, water scarcity, long and exhausting commutes to school, and the constant threat of gang violence and crime. The violent environment stifles growth and development, while the lack of technology and technical difficulties, such as malfunctioning donated robots, hinder their educational progress. Despite these difficulties, the resilience of the students in Futuro Vivo’s schools remains strong, highlighting the importance of addressing these barriers to support their educational journey.

Key Takeaways

The success of this academic project was just one of the rewards of my time in Guatemala. I was deeply moved by the warmth and generosity of the students and their families, who, despite living in one-room homes where the kitchen, dining room, and bedroom are all in one, they offered their best meal and drink as a sign of hospitality. Most unforgettable, however, were the smiles of the children—radiating joy in the face of adversity. Their ability to find happiness amidst such challenging circumstances is something I will carry with me forever.

This journey has reinforced my belief that technology, when combined with human compassion, can truly transform lives. It has also been a powerful reminder that the greatest lessons often come from those who have the least but give the most.

Learn more about Futuro Vivo : Futuro Vivo’s Website

Discover Xocolatl: Xocolatl’s Website